https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Fractalguy&feedformat=atommetawiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T15:31:00ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.41.0https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4010Webinar series2024-03-26T13:02:14Z<p>Fractalguy: /* metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session (3) is April 8, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]] and [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4009Webinar series2024-03-26T13:01:28Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]] and [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Religion&diff=4008Religion2024-03-26T00:56:43Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Essential Components of Religion */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Religion-Universalism-Pantheism-Coexist-Bahai-Peace.jpg|thumb|Can't we all just get along?]]<br />
Religion is belief in [[god]] in practice. Those that share a common [[belief system]] will express those beliefs in their [[traditions]], [[rituals]] and worship practices.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately no such [[traditions]] exist for those with [[secular]] orientation. But since [[tradition]] and [[ritual]] are integral to [[culture]], it is necessary for [[metaculture]] to develop [[traditions]] and [[rituals]] that can reinforce modern values like [[freedom]], [[reason]], [[science]], [[equality]], etc. <br />
<br />
In order to remedy this situation, the first step is to enumerate all of the functions that religion serves in our [[society]] and personal [[psychology]], in order that we can find [[secular]] analogs for each that can perform the same function, or improve upon them. <br />
<br />
== Essential Components of Religion ==<br />
<br />
A fully fledged religion needs to have<br />
<br />
* A [[god]]<br />
* A [[creation]] story<br />
* An [[apocalypse]] story<br />
* Cultural [[history]]<br />
* A system of [[ethics]]<br />
* Enforcement of [[taboos]]<br />
* [[Rituals]] to celebrate [[life]]'s milestones like [[birth]], [[coming of age]], [[marriage]] and [[death]]<br />
* A [[metanarrative]] that provides [[meaning]], context, and easy transmission of a [[culture]]'s most critical beliefs<br />
* Legal recognition by the government<br />
* Enough followers to not be considered a ''cult''<br />
<br />
[[metaculture]] should provide all of these things in order to fully serve the social and [[God Concept|psychological functions of religion]] without contradicting the [[rational]], [[materialistic]] view of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
== metaculture's Core Theology ==<br />
<br />
The following theological beliefs have been [[Love|lovingly]] hand-crafted to provide the greatest compatibility with both [[science]] and an [[Allegory|allegorical]] reading of [[scripture]], while inspiring [[Wonder|wonder and awe]] in the [[universe]] and the [[Universal in-group|oneness of humankind]].<br />
<br />
* [[God|Definition of god]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalism]]<br />
* [[Fractal|The fractal geometry of god]]<br />
* [[God Concept|The god concept]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Morality and Ethics]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Faith|Faith and Certainty]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|The Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Apocalypse Prevention]]<br />
<br />
== Evolution of Religion ==<br />
<br />
Throughout [[history]], the [[traditions]] of one [[culture]] have been coopted and repurposed by the next. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia Saturnalia] becomes Christmas once the Roman Empire becomes a Christian state. This makes sense from a [[psychological]] perspective since it is much easier to redirect an existing [[habit]] than to form a new one from nothing. <br />
<br />
Christmas has already been coopted again by the [[god]] of [[capitalism]], and as such it should be embraced. Rather than being a selfish perversion of the teachings of Jesus, it can be a joyous celebration of all the wonderful stuff that [[capitalism]] is so good at producing. This is simply acknowledging the [[evolution]] in meaning that the Christmas holiday has already undergone. <br />
<br />
And this is the nature of [[rituals]]. They [[evolve]] and change their [[meaning]] with the tide of [[history]]. Old [[traditions]] become new by taking on new meaning imbued by [[future]] generations. Rarely are they simply made up out of whole cloth, and when they are it's more likely to become a [[cult]] than a religion.<br />
<br />
== Religion Videos ==<br />
<br />
There are a lot of videos on religion that could be chosen. Here are some of them.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9mFNgu6Cww||center|The Origins of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge071m9bGeY||center|The History of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYjqu09dudo||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Patrick McNamara|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqgPWx7wGSY||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Andrew Newberg|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GTWnU_IPdg||center|Mahavishnu Orchestra - Visions of the Emerald Beyond|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4007Webinar series2024-03-25T22:57:14Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Ponderin' Questions */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the 3/25 Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]] and [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4006Webinar series2024-03-25T22:55:53Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 2 Metaphysics and Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the 3/25 Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]] and [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4005Webinar series2024-03-25T22:55:31Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 2 Metaphysics and Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the 3/25 Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4004Webinar series2024-03-25T22:49:49Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 2 Metaphysics and Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the 3/25 Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[Inevitability|Atheism]][[Inevitability|,]] [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4003Webinar series2024-03-25T18:48:13Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the 3/25 Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4002Webinar series2024-03-25T12:11:16Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Join the Webinar Tonight! ===<br />
Use this meeting link to join tonight's webinar at 8:30PM EDT.<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Necessary_Prerequisite&diff=4001Necessary Prerequisite2024-03-18T13:18:51Z<p>Fractalguy: /* The Fractal Tree of Knowledge */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Necessary-prerequisites-building-blocks-education.png|thumb|If the top block is your goal, all the other blocks must be in place first.]]<br />
One of the primary goals of the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] is to provide the means for filling in the prerequisite knowledge required to fully understand all of its core concepts. Everyone comes with different [[educational]] backgrounds, [[religious]] and [[cultural]] [[perspectives]]. [[metaculture]] should [[meet people where they are]], and provide a clear path to the top of the mountain.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this [[wiki]] is to focus on the topics where you have the most questions or interest, watching the videos and following the external links until you understand them, and skim the ones that you are already familiar with to see if any new or interesting [[perspectives]] are presented.<br />
<br />
With this goal in mind, the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]] has [[something for everyone]].<br />
== In Education ==<br />
<br />
In education, you must learn the fundamental concepts for a subject before you can learn the advanced theory. The fundamentals are a [[Necessary Prerequisite]] for understanding the higher-level classes.<br />
<br />
== In Societies ==<br />
<br />
In order for societies to [[evolve]], there are [[necessary prerequisites]] for each step. If you have ever played the game Civilization then this point is obvious. You must invent the wheel and tame horses before you can invent the chariots that will let you dominate the ancient era. Writing must be invented before [[mathematics]], which is required for trade and navigation.<br />
<br />
[http://well-of-souls.com/civ/images/civ6_tech_tree1.jpg Civ 6 Tech Tree] | [https://well-of-souls.com/civ/images/civ6_civics_tree1.jpg Civ 6 Civics Tree]<br />
<br />
== In Moral Development ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Kohlberg-Stages-Moral-Development.png|thumb|right]]<br />
<br />
The developmental systems proposed by Kohlberg and Maslow exemplify how the concept of educational progression and prerequisite knowledge applies to areas of personal development. If you want to obtain [[enlightenment]] then there are necessary steps you must follow. [[metaculture]] seeks to define those steps, with [[science]].<br />
<br />
=== Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development ===<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lawrence_Kohlberg%27s_stages_of_moral_development Kohlberg's stages of moral development] is an important concept to learn in order to understand how different people perceive ethical decision making. It comes up in many places on the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]]. It demonstrates how the building blocks of [[ethical]] knowledge and experience lead to a progressive expansion in our definition of [[ethics]].<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bounwXLkme4||center||frame}}<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0axVjiTe9Q||center||frame}}<br />
<br />
=== Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs ===<br />
<br />
[[File:MaslowHierarchy.png|thumb|right]]<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs Maslow's hierarchy of needs] marks a similar path for personal growth, but focused on the satisfaction of our physical and [[emotional]] needs as prerequisites for [[spiritual]] and [[moral]] [[fulfillment]]. Before you can find [[love]] you must first find shelter. Before you can achieve self-actualization, you must have [[love]]. Each stage is a step towards [[enlightenment]] that rests on the foundation of the previous stage.<br />
<br />
Critics have pointed out that the order of this progression is not consistently followed [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/philosophy-and-therapy/202401/the-philosophy-of-maslows-hierarchy], but the concept is still important to understand. Basic needs should come first. If you are trying to increase [[happiness]] in a [[society]], a focus on higher [[education]] and the [[arts]] will have less impact than solving [[food]] scarcity if people are starving. [[Mental health]] issues are much easier to solve when you don't live on the street or a single [[paycheck]] away from it.<br />
<br />
It's a good way to understand the steps needed to get to [[enlightenment]]. Sure, the order of execution is not absolute, but the relative priorities are. It also demonstrates that you have to [[meet people where they are]], fulfill the needs that are most pressing, and build on that infrastructure to achieve higher-level goals.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-4ithG_07Q||center||frame}}<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT6BpFhPsfY||center||frame}}<br />
<br />
== Psychological Off-Ramps for Magical Thinking ==<br />
Using [[metaphor mapping]] allows [[supernatural]], [[pseudoscientific]], and other [[beliefs]] not based on [[reason]] to become connected to a [[science]]-based [[reality]]. This helps validate the [[emotional]] goal and connection to the [[belief]] rather than debunking, which is ineffective at [[persuasion]].<br />
<br />
The [[placebo effect]] is particularly useful for this, since most [[ritual]]-based healing techniques rely on the [[placebo effect]] for any efficacy that they do have.<br />
<br />
== The Fractal Tree of Knowledge ==<br />
[[File:Temptation-apple-eve-salience-reward-consequence.jpg|thumb|The Fractal Tree of Knowledge has significantly more explanatory power and less [[misogyny]] than the [[traditional]] [[wikipedia:Forbidden_fruit|apple-and-snake]] [[Metaphors|metaphor]].]]<br />
This section describes an example [[Progress|progression]] of reasoning (i.e. [[wikipedia:Syllogism|syllogism]]) employed by [[metaculture]]. Each new step in the [[logic]] chain can an be thought of as an [[iteration]] in the [[fractal]] [[wikipedia:Tree_of_the_knowledge_of_good_and_evil|tree of knowledge]], because each one reveals a geometrically increasing number of corollary conclusions that expand the breadth of our [[ethical]] awareness.<br />
<br />
On the [[Kohlberg]] scale, this is the equivalent to going from Stage 4 to Stage 6.<br />
<br />
In this progression, we go from a [[fundamentalist]] [[religious]] [[perspective]] to a new [[generating equation]] based on [[universalism]] and the pursuit of [[happiness]] through [[scientific]] evidence. It does this by systematically filling in the gaps in knowledge and reasoning until the desired level of understanding is obtained and a new [[God Concept|pattern of thought]] is adopted. It is [[persuasion]] through targeted [[education]] and apt [[allegory]].<br />
<br />
Similar paths can be constructed that start with other [[philosophical]] reference points, such as [[atheism]] or [[Libertarian|libertarianism]]. The eventual goal is to identify the key unique entry points based on the most common [[philosophical]], [[political]], and [[religious]] beliefs, and provide a customized curriculums that localize [[languages]], [[cultural]] references, [[religious]] [[allegories]], and [[Persuasion|rhetorical strategies]] to speak directly to the values and goals of each. This uses the [[wiki]] custom [[language]] function to [[wikipedia:Code-switching|code switch]] the entire [[philosophy]] to use the specific [[wikipedia:Vernacular|vernacular]] of the reader.[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-1-literalism-allegory.png|center|frame|Understanding the nature of [[Literalism]] versus [[Allegory]] and how it applies to our interpretation of [[scripture]] is the first building block.]]<br />
[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-2-pantheistic-universe-god.png|center|frame|If [[religion]] is an [[allegory]] for something, what is that something? It must be the [[universe]]. And that is why the idea of [[god]] is [[Universalist|universal]].]]<br />
[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-3-creation-evolution-big-bang.png|center|frame|If [[god]] is an [[allegory]] for the [[self-organizing]] [[universe]], then the [[Creation Story|creation story]] must be an [[allegory]] for the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]].]]<br />
[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-4-brains-ethics-morality.png|center|frame|If [[god]] used [[evolution]] to create our [[brains]] and our [[emotions]], then our [[ethics]] and [[morality]] must have been instilled in us by our survival instincts.]]<br />
[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-5-happiness-goal-evolution.png|center|frame|If [[Happiness and well-being|happiness]] is the [[emotion]] we feel when do what our [[brains]] were designed to do (survive), then improving our [[quality of life]] must be the [[Meaning of Life|goal of life]].]]<br />
[[File:Fractal-tree-of-knowledge-iteration-final-evidence-based-best-practices.png|center|frame|Therefore we should [[Evidence-Based Best Practices|use all of the evidence at our disposal]] to create a [[society]] that maximizes [[Happiness|happiness and well-being]] for [[In-group|all people]]. This is represented by multiple [[iterations]] as [[scientific]] [[Evidence-Based Best Practices|evidence]] is gathered, applied, and updated into the [[future]].]]<br />
<br />
== Prerequisite for Peace ==<br />
<br />
[[metaculture]] is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for a [[In-group|united human future]]. It is the framework that enables [[Culturally neutral|cross-cultural understanding]] of our common goals. Only when all people are able to see all others as members of their [[in-group]] can we be truly unified. This is accomplished by creating a common [[scientific]] framework for understanding [[religious]] [[allegory]] in all forms, allowing members of any [[culture]] to see other [[cultures]] as analogous equals rather than heretics and heathens.<br />
<br />
== Why Do Some People Not Get Life? ==<br />
We see so many people spreading [[hate]], anger, and general bad [[karma]] everywhere in modern [[society]]. Those who understand that this negativity is hurting them much more than anyone else sometimes wonder what it is that these people fail to "get" about [[life]]. [[metaculture]] proposes that there are very specific, identifiable [[concepts]] that negative people fail to understand, and that learning these [[concepts]] can transform a person and make them an [[optimistic]] [[realist]], who sees and seeks out the [[beauty]] and [[wonder]] of the [[universe]], while still not losing sight of the real challenges [[life]] imposes.<br />
<br />
== The Dunning-Kruger Antiproliferation Movement ==<br />
<br />
When it comes to understanding universal subjects like [[politics]] and [[religion]], people with vastly different levels of subject matter expertise are expected to converse as peers. In order to understand ideas like [[universalism]] you must first have an understanding of the basic tenets of the major world [[religions]] and their commonalities. These are things that can be taught, but differences of opinion on these matters are not called out as the disparities in [[education]] that they truly are.<br />
<br />
There are entirely too many people on [[social media]] giving opinions about things when they obviously haven't taken the prerequisite courses. They insert themselves into 300 level conversations about topics when they haven't passed the 101 course. Their ignorant opinions are often amplified by others with the same lack of expertise, on the basis that their arguments appeal to [[common sense]] or the values of their [[in-group]]. It has led to the mass-proliferation of [[misinformation]] via the [[wikipedia:Dunning–Kruger_effect|Dunning-Kruger effect]]. [[Newsfeed]] [[promotion]] algorithms must be adjusted to prioritize [[experts]], and [[trust]] in [[institutions]] must be restored so that expertise is not ignored or [[contradicted]].<br />
<br />
Our [[culture]] needs to develop a new [[taboo]] regarding the voicing of opinions on subjects which you have neither experience nor expertise. If you are just shooting your mouth off because you think you have to have an opinion about everything, or parroting something you heard but have no understanding of, then you need to sit down, shut up, and listen to the [[experts]]. <br />
<br />
Is this statement ironic when presented on a [[wiki]] that gives an opinion on nearly everything? Perhaps. But in this case the consistent opinion given is to trust [[science]] and [[expertise]] rather than any particular conclusion drawn, which makes it different.<br />
<br />
If you do participate in the conversation, remember to act like a student and not a teacher if you're not qualified to teach on the subject. By having well-understood and [[trusted]] standards for [[education]] and credentialing within all areas of specialization, and [[Taboos|cultural norms]] that reinforce them, we can hopefully get to a place where our [[minds]] are consistently nourished by the finest [[information]] from the most knowledgeable subject matter [[experts]].<br />
<br />
== This Is Necessary ==<br />
<br />
[[Life]] feeds on [[life]].<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmJYZ1NIn1Y||center|Tool - Disgustipated|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=4000Webinar series2024-03-13T17:04:54Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Ponderin' Questions */</p>
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<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
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<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the [[Sierpinski Trinity|holy spirit]] of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What fields have well-established [[best practices]]? <br />
* Which fields really need [[best practices]] but don't have them? <br />
* Which ones would be very difficult to apply [[evidence-based best practices]] and why?<br />
* What other aspects of [[life]] should be covered in the above list but aren't?<br />
* What should be included in the evidence standards that would trigger a major revision to a recommendation?<br />
* What should determine the most important facts that need to be covered for each subject to avoid [[information overload]]?<br />
* How can the diversity of [[culture]] and methods for finding [[happiness]] be celebrated throughout to avoid any tendency towards homogenization?</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3999Webinar series2024-03-13T04:36:44Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 9 Politics, Government and Economics */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Are there any third way or fourth way [[political]] orientations that are not covered in the modern [[political]] compass?<br />
* Is it ever ok to ''not'' punch a [[fascist]]?<br />
* How do utopian visions of [[future]] societies lead to [[genocide]]?<br />
* Is the limitation of [[freedom]] that does not harm another person ever justified?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact your views on [[Freedom of Speech|freedom of speech]]?<br />
* Do the values of a liberal, [[progressive]] society necessarily infringe on the [[Religious Freedom|religious liberty]] of traditionalists?<br />
* What [[power]] structures in modern [[society]] are out of [[Balance of power|balance]]?<br />
* Do European countries that lack an absolute [[Separation of Church and State]] suffer from religious intolerance or indoctrination?<br />
* Can you explain the US student loan system in a way that someone who does not know their socioeconomic position at birth would choose it?<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3998Webinar series2024-03-13T04:02:33Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Ponderin' Questions */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position or [[perspective]] due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3997Webinar series2024-03-13T04:01:28Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 2 Metaphysics and Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Science]], [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3996Webinar series2024-03-13T03:55:58Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Ponderin' Questions */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
* Do you think it is [[The Gambler|likely]] that we live in a [[simulation]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3995Webinar series2024-03-13T03:52:08Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays: Next Session is March 25, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
=== Ponderin' Questions ===<br />
<br />
* What impact would an [[AI]]-optimized newsfeed [[algorithm]] that maximizes [[happiness]] reactions have on [[society]]?<br />
* What would you change about he nature of online discourse if you could change one thing?<br />
* What form of modern [[grift]] not mentioned [[Grift|here]] should be added to the list?<br />
* What [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] belief is your personal pet peeve?<br />
* Are there other [[scientific]] fields besides [[Quantum mechanics|Quantum Mechanics]] that lend themselves to [[pseudoscience]] and [[woo]]?<br />
* How can secular progressive philosophy appeal to the adolescent male [[mind]]?<br />
* How does [[Jordan Peterson]] and the [[manosphere]] manage to appeal to young men more than any [[progressive]] [[philosophy]]?<br />
* Is it possible to avoid [[in-group]] bias in the application of [[critical thinking]]?<br />
* What new [[taboos]] are required to maintain the social order in the [[future]]?<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3994Webinar series2024-03-13T03:19:19Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Questions to Ponder */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become [[self-aware]]?<br />
* Are animals [[self-aware]]? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]]?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most [[Salience|motivational salience]] to you?<br />
* Is there a [[habit]] that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that [[Delayed gratification|delaying gratification]] paid off for you?<br />
* What [[temptation]] is your weakness? What do you do to mitigate that?<br />
* What's your favorite [[emotion]] other than happiness/joy? What is your least favorite?<br />
* What is a strategy you employ to break out of a negative [[emotional]] state?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a [[placebo]]?<br />
* Can the [[placebo effect]] be elicited using [[rituals]]?<br />
* If you had to create a new [[placebo]] [[ritual]], what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3993Webinar series2024-03-13T03:14:51Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Questions to Ponder */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single [[Reading List|work]] that reflects your [[beliefs]] as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* Are there any other goals for [[society]] that should be prioritized enough to list on the [[Main Page|home page]]?<br />
* Is [[science]] [[culturally neutral]]? Can it be?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a [[universal in-group]]?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior [[persuasive]] power?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the [[secular humanist]] [[perspective]]?<br />
* Is it possible to codify [[beliefs]] without them becoming [[dogma]]?<br />
* What is the [[Meaning of Life|meaning of life]]?<br />
* Have you ever edited a [[Wiki|Wikipedia]] page? Which ones?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define [[god]]?<br />
* Are there any other [[social]] or [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of [[reality]] to be [[Inevitability|inevitable]] (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern [[God Concept|god concepts]]?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or [[truths]] that are [[universal]] to all [[religions]]?<br />
* Are there any aspects of [[god]] not found in the [[universe]] itself?<br />
* Aren't [[fractals]] [[Wonder|awesome]]?<br />
* Does belief in the [[supernatural]] have any impact on your [[life choices]] if the [[laws of physics]] are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of [[faith]]-based beliefs that are still required in a [[secular]] [[Belief System|belief system]]?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another [[ethical]] system besides [[utilitarianism]] whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "[[happiness and well-being]]" an accurate description of our [[psychological]] goals?<br />
* How much weight should [[Future people|future generations]] have in our [[ethical]] calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental [[ethical]] dichotomies besides [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life versus quality of life]]?<br />
* What do you find to be the most [[Persuasion|persuasive]] argument for your position on [[abortion]], [[euthanasia]], or the [[death penalty]]?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for [[Moderation|avoiding excessive indulgence]]?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of [[God|god's]] commandments [[These things are bad, mkay?|forbid]]?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will [[Algorithm|algorithmic]] thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by [[AI]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[nature]]?<br />
* What are some other examples of [[feedback loops]] in [[society]]?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of [[truth]] like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a [[belief]], [[Social norms|social norm]], or [[law]] in [[society]] that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does [[Self-Similarity|self-similarity]] reduce the amount of [[information]] required to encode [[natural]] designs?<br />
* How has the principle of [[self-correction]] been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the [[mind]] is purely [[material]]? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most [[mindful]]?<br />
* Does the [[universe]] have [[consciousness]]?<br />
* Do you believe we have [[free will]]? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a [[time]] you have changed your environment to aid your [[willpower]]?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of [[subjective]] experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of [[consciousness]]?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become self-aware?<br />
* Are animals self-aware? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most cognitive dissonance?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had cognitive dissonance and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most motivational salience to you?<br />
* Is there a habit that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that delaying gratification paid off for you?<br />
* What temptation is your weakness?<br />
* What's your favorite emotion other than happiness/joy?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a placebo?<br />
* Can the placebo effect be elicited using rituals?<br />
* If you had to create a new placebo ritual, what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you think that most self-described [[Scripture|scriptural]] "[[literalists]]" truly believe it absolutely? Or would the necessity of interpretation ultimately be acknowledged when pressed on the issue?<br />
* What is your favorite [[Creation Story|creation]] myth?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to say that the [[big bang]] and [[evolution]] is "how [[god]] did it"?<br />
* What are the key concepts required to understand [[evolution]] that are not explained in [[school]]? What are the gaps in [[creationist]] understanding?<br />
* Is there a [[psychological]] benefit to the belief in the continuity of [[consciousness]] and [[self-awareness]] after [[death]]?<br />
* Were [[Heaven and Hell|heaven and hell]] originally meant to be [[allegories]] for states of [[mind]] or were they meant to be [[literal]]?<br />
* Are you starting to feel the holy spirit of the [[fractal]] [[universe]]?<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3992Webinar series2024-03-13T02:38:21Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single work that reflects your beliefs as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a universal in-group?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior persuasive power?<br />
* Is it possible to codify beliefs without them becoming dogma?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the secular humanist perspective?<br />
* What is the meaning of life?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define god?<br />
* Are there any other social or psychological functions of religion not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of reality to be inevitable (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern god concepts?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or truths that are universal to all religions?<br />
* Are there any aspects of god not found in the universe itself?<br />
* Aren't fractals awesome?<br />
* Does belief in the supernatural have any impact on your life choices if the laws of physics are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of faith-based beliefs that are still required in a secular belief system?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another ethical system besides utilitarianism whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "happiness and well-being" an accurate description of our psychological goals?<br />
* How much weight should future generations have in our ethical calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental ethical dichotomies besides quantity of life versus quality of life?<br />
* What do you find to be the most persuasive argument for your position on abortion, euthanasia, or the death penalty?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for avoiding excessive indulgence?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of god's commandments forbid?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you really understand [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] or do you just say you do?<br />
* Does Al Gore have rhythm? How much responsibility can he legitimately claim for the invention of the internet?<br />
* Will algorithmic thinking become a core skill or will it be replaced by AI?<br />
* What are some other examples of feedback loops in nature?<br />
* What are some other examples of feedback loops in society?<br />
* How does [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]] relate to the Paradox of Tolerance?<br />
* How is the nature of truth like the border between 0 and infinity of the Mandelbrot set? Or the coastline of England?<br />
* What is an example of a belief, social norm, or law in society that has led to some unintended consequence due to the "butterfly effect"?<br />
* How does self-similarity reduce the amount of information required to encode natural designs?<br />
* How has the principle of self-correction been implemented in some system that you know about?<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the mind is purely material? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most mindful?<br />
* Does the universe have consciousness?<br />
* Do you believe we have free will? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a time you have changed your environment to aid your willpower?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of subjective experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of consciousness?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become self-aware?<br />
* Are animals self-aware? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most cognitive dissonance?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had cognitive dissonance and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most motivational salience to you?<br />
* Is there a habit that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that delaying gratification paid off for you?<br />
* What temptation is your weakness?<br />
* What's your favorite emotion other than happiness/joy?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a placebo?<br />
* Can the placebo effect be elicited using rituals?<br />
* If you had to create a new placebo ritual, what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3991Webinar series2024-03-13T01:54:13Z<p>Fractalguy: /* 2 Metaphysics and Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single work that reflects your beliefs as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a universal in-group?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior persuasive power?<br />
* Is it possible to codify beliefs without them becoming dogma?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the secular humanist perspective?<br />
* What is the meaning of life?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]] and the [[God Concept]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* How do you define god?<br />
* Are there any other social or psychological functions of religion not mentioned here?<br />
* Do you consider some aspects of reality to be inevitable (must be)? Which ones?<br />
* What are some other examples of modern god concepts?<br />
* What are some other functions, principles, or truths that are universal to all religions?<br />
* Are there any aspects of god not found in the universe itself?<br />
* Aren't fractals awesome?<br />
* Does belief in the supernatural have any impact on your life choices if the laws of physics are never violated?<br />
* What are examples of faith-based beliefs that are still required in a secular belief system?<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Can you conceive of another ethical system besides utilitarianism whose results could be studied empirically?<br />
* Is "happiness and well-being" an accurate description of our psychological goals?<br />
* How much weight should future generations have in our ethical calculus? How many generations should be considered?<br />
* Are there other fundamental ethical dichotomies besides quantity of life versus quality of life?<br />
* What do you find to be the most persuasive argument for your position on abortion, euthanasia, or the death penalty?<br />
* What are your personal strategies for avoiding excessive indulgence?<br />
* What other kinds of behavior would your version of god's commandments forbid?<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the mind is purely material? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most mindful?<br />
* Does the universe have consciousness?<br />
* Do you believe we have free will? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a time you have changed your environment to aid your willpower?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of subjective experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of consciousness?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* At what point in our development do we truly become self-aware?<br />
* Are animals self-aware? Which ones?<br />
* What are some examples of modern conflicting ideas that cause the most cognitive dissonance?<br />
* What is an example of a time when you had cognitive dissonance and how was it resolved?<br />
* What is the thing with the most motivational salience to you?<br />
* Is there a habit that you have tried to quit? Were you successful? What strategy did you employ?<br />
* When was a time that delaying gratification paid off for you?<br />
* What temptation is your weakness?<br />
* What's your favorite emotion other than happiness/joy?<br />
* Have you ever been cured by a placebo?<br />
* Can the placebo effect be elicited using rituals?<br />
* If you had to create a new placebo ritual, what would it be?<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3990Webinar series2024-03-13T00:12:22Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Questions to Ponder */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single work that reflects your beliefs as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact the goal of creating a universal in-group?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior persuasive power?<br />
* Is it possible to codify beliefs without them becoming dogma?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the secular humanist perspective?<br />
* What is the meaning of life?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the mind is purely material? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most mindful?<br />
* Does the universe have consciousness?<br />
* Do you believe we have free will? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a time you have changed your environment to aid your willpower?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of subjective experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of consciousness?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3989Webinar series2024-03-12T22:52:42Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Is there any single work that reflects your beliefs as a whole? Or a significant portion?<br />
* How does the Paradox of Tolerance impact our goal of creating a universal in-group?<br />
* Is it intellectually honest to take a position due to its superior persuasive power?<br />
* Is it possible to codify beliefs without them becoming dogma?<br />
* What are the most important concepts required to understand the secular humanist perspective?<br />
* What is the meaning of life?<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
=== Questions to Ponder ===<br />
<br />
* Do you believe that the mind is purely material? Or is it something separate?<br />
* What activities put you in a flow state? When do you feel most mindful?<br />
* Does the universe have consciousness?<br />
* Do you believe we have free will? Can we control our actions with our thoughts?<br />
* What is a time you have changed your environment to aid your willpower?<br />
* Do you believe in the similarity of subjective experiences? Is your perception of color the same as others?<br />
* What is your solution to the hard problem of consciousness?<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3988Webinar series2024-03-12T22:13:52Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Webinar_series&diff=3987Webinar series2024-03-11T20:20:14Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]<br />
The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
<br />
=== Meeting Link for March 11 @ 8:30PM EST ===<br />
Use this link to join tonight's webinar:<br />
<br />
https://meet.zoho.com/RoxOaDGlkG<br />
<br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
<br />
* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Persuasion&diff=3986Persuasion2024-03-11T13:49:24Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Making a Complete Argument */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Persuasion-debate-argument-common-ground-polarization.jpg|thumb|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMq-ZnLwyeA There's got to be a better way!]]]<br />
Is it better to be technically correct? Or is it better to be heard and understood?<br />
<br />
What is the point of entering into a debate in the first place, if not to persuade the other person? <br />
<br />
And if the point is to persuade, why is the majority of modern discourse consist of people talking past each other? Repeating tired old arguments and reflexive responses like two amateur chess players that memorized the same strategy book. <br />
<br />
Modern discourse does not seek to understand, connect, identify, or resonate with the other person, simply to "win" in the eyes of some nonexistent judge, and gain the approval of the already convinced on [[social media]].<br />
<br />
[https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/us-2-0-win-hearts-then-minds/ This recent episode of Hidden Brain makes many of these same points very well].<br />
<br />
== The Importance of Persuasion ==<br />
The debate of [[science]] versus [[superstition]] and [[misinformation]] is one of the most important debates in human [[history]]. It is of the utmost importance that enough people are convinced of this before nuclear [[war]], [[climate change]], or some other existential global calamity is caused by [[In-group|humanity's inability to come together as one]].<br />
<br />
Every perspective taken in [[metaculture]] has the ability to connect and persuade its intended audience in mind. Even the choice to make a [[wiki]] in order to present these ideas, since it offers the ability to use the language feature to [[wikipedia:Code-switching|code switch]] the entire [[philosophy]]. This not only translates it into other languages, but allows switching out [[religious]] [[allegories]], [[music]] and pop [[culture]] references, and debate styles, aligning it with both [[cultural]] and generational differences to maximize the benefit of the doubt we naturally give to our [[in-group]].<br />
<br />
== Making a Complete Argument ==<br />
Debates in general, but especially on [[social media]], suffer from the limitation that you can only convey a tiny fraction of your point in any given statement. You may have the weight of multiple graduate degrees worth of knowledge and experience behind a single statement, but the other side has no way of knowing any of that [[information]]. <br />
<br />
Judging by the discourse, most people seem to operate on the assumption that a few sentences in a [[social media]] post represents the totality of your consideration of the subject. The idea that you could have any supporting arguments, data, or nuance in your opinion is never taken for granted. How can you overcome this?<br />
<br />
The [[wiki]] offers a way to tie any single point you make to an entire system of thought behind it. If you generally agree with the [[perspective]] given here, then you can link any page in this [[wiki]] into a [[social media]] comment and the entire [[philosophy]] behind it can be explored, providing all of the background reasoning, evidence, and nuance that a single post could never capture.<br />
<br />
== Strategies for Political and Theological Persuasion ==<br />
When dealing with core identity topics like [[politics]] and [[religion]], a number of strategies should be employed to avoid emotional and reflexive reactions instead of considered attention to evidence and reasoning.<br />
<br />
=== Use Narrative and Allegory ===<br />
The [[brain]] leans much more easily through narratives and [[allegories]] than it does with [[reason]] and [[Evidence-based best practices|evidence]]. This is especially true for people with [[spiritual]] mindsets, but generally speaking only those who have had advanced [[science]] [[education]] have trained their [[brains]] to prioritize evidence over [[emotion]]. And that training still fails much of the [[time]]!<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, most popular [[science]] is written by scientists who tend to shy away from these types of argument through [[allegory]], and when they do they are really bad at it from lack of practice. And a pervasive disdain for anecdotal evidence in the [[science]] community hampers their ability to tell stories that connect on a human level.<br />
<br />
If you are arguing for [[reason]], you are allowed to make ''passionate'', [[emotional]] arguments for [[reason]]! It is a vitally important topic to the [[future]] of humanity!!!<br />
<br />
Of course, the arguments should always be [[Truth|truthful]]. But [[truth]] told through an [[emotional]] story is more easily absorbed by the [[brain]], and failure to use them in debate represents unilateral disarmament against an opponent with no such qualms.<br />
<br />
=== Avoid Established Out-group Identities ===<br />
Most established [[Ideology|ideologies]] and [[belief systems]] have names that are well known to [[religious]] [[fundamentalists]] and have already been identified as an [[out-group]] that should not be listened to. This is particularly true for [[Secular humanist|secular humanism]], which many [[fundamentalists]] claim is the new [[progressive]] [[religion]].[https://tif.ssrc.org/2011/02/25/secular-humanism-the-christian-right-and-progressive-education/] <br />
<br />
[[Universalists]], [[pantheists]], and others that deny [[Literalists|literalist]] interpretations of [[scripture]] are also well known, and invoking them will trigger established [[psychological]] defenses. Don't even try to mention [[socialism]]!<br />
<br />
A successful movement towards [[secular]] [[universalism]] will require new terminology whose definitions and meaning can be established in the [[culture]] before the forces of [[fundamentalism]] can slander them. Until it becomes well-known, [[metaculture]] can be invoked in personal conversations and it comes with no [[prejudice]] beyond the implied meaning of the word. You are now free to describe what you believe in a [[compatibilist]] way while avoiding the established [[psychological]] roadblocks.<br />
<br />
=== Avoid Attacking Someone's Core Identity ===<br />
This point should be obvious but apparently it is not, given how many [[atheists]] start their conversations with [[theists]] by attacking [[religion]] right out of the gate. The only reason to do this is to elicit a reaction, since there is obviously no persuasive power in such a tactic. This is not discourse, it is [[trolling]].<br />
<br />
No argument that is presented in opposition to someone's core [[belief systems]], be they [[supernatural]], [[libertarian]], or [[trauma-induced]], will get any traction. The only way to be persuasive is to identify as part of the [[in-group]] of your counterpart. This lets you leverage [[in-group]] bias in your favor, and avoids [[out-group]] [[skepticism]] and [[contrarianism]]. <br />
<br />
To start your conversation by establishing yourself as a member of the [[in-group]], you must first find common ground before you can address the points where you already know you will disagree.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Common Goals ===<br />
Behind every opinion is a goal, some objective the person is trying to achieve that they think will be better served if we do whatever they are saying. But what is that goal? it is often unstated and assumed. By focusing attention on the goal, you usually end up establishing common ground, because we are all humans and we all share the same ultimate goal of increasing [[Happiness and well-being|happiness]] and [[quality of life]]. If you trace each intermediate goal back to its original purpose, all roads lead to this one true goal shared by all of humanity. <br />
<br />
Now you are part of the [[in-group]] and you are ready to have a totally different conversation.<br />
<br />
=== How Can Atheists and Theists Find Common Ground? ===<br />
The first thing that most [[atheists]] and [[theists]] can agree on is the fact that [[literalism]] is a false and dangerous way to interpret [[scripture]] and [[allegory]] is the correct way. [[Atheists]] tend to be biased and assume most theists are [[fundamentalists]], because many of them come from those backgrounds. They will be surprised to find common ground if they really explore the topic of [[literalism]] versus [[allegory]] with most believers.<br />
<br />
It works in reverse, too. [[Theists]] who wish to find common ground with an [[atheist]] can also employ this tactic.<br />
<br />
The other really good way for [[atheists]] to find common ground is to go the way Einstein and Sagan, stop being [[atheists]], and start being [[Pantheists]]. The [[atheism]] page lays out the many rhetorical and [[psychological]] benefits of doing this.<br />
<br />
The technique of [[metaphor mapping]] is also employed to show how [[religious]] beliefs are [[allegories]] for real, observable phenomena in the [[universe]], and [[rituals]] can elicit the [[placebo effect]] to heal us [[psychologically]].<br />
<br />
And, of course, you can always focus on your common goals.<br />
<br />
=== How Can Progressives and Libertarians Find Common Ground? ===<br />
Having extensively explored and actively campaigned on both sides of this issue, this author feels uniquely qualified to address the question of where these two [[Politics|political]] [[philosophies]] have common ground.<br />
<br />
The first is in the concept of [[freedom]], which is a core [[libertarian]] value that [[progressives]] also share as a common goal. Exploring what it truly means to be free in a [[Capitalism|capitalist]] society where [[billionaires]] often have much more [[power]] and control over your [[available life choices]] and [[free will]] than the [[government]], is an effective way for [[progressives]] and [[libertarians]] to have a productive discussion.<br />
<br />
The second is the concept of the [[wikipedia:Non-aggression_principle|non-aggression principle]], which is another core [[libertarian]] value that most [[progressives]] can get on board with. I don't know a lot of [[progressives]] that are gung-ho about the police state and support the prosecution of victimless crimes like [[drugs]] and prostitution for consenting adults.<br />
<br />
Many [[libertarians]] have been heavily influenced by [[capitalist]] [[propaganda]] and assume that anyone to the left of Ronald Reagan is an [[authoritarian]] [[communist]] that ultimately wants to destroy [[capitalism]]. When you know what their core values and goals are, and demonstrate that you share them, you can now be seen as part of the [[in-group]] instead of a commie bastard.<br />
<br />
Likewise, most [[Progressive|progressives]] are not actually [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Communist|communists]], and actually support [[capitalism]] as long as it has nothing to do with whether or not you can get [[healthcare]]. If you are a [[libertarian]] and want to find common ground with a [[progressive]], this tactic is equally effective in reverse.<br />
<br />
== What If We All Debated This Way? ==<br />
If the tactic of finding common goals and establishing a shared [[in-group]] prior to discussing sensitive issues about our [[belief systems]] were to become widespread, it would form a new [[generating equation]] that could significantly accelerate the creation of a [[universal in-group]].<br />
<br />
[[Platforms|Social media]] has created a [[generating equation]] that has accelerated [[trolling]], [[contrarianism]], [[misinformation]], and [[grift]] through the systematic [[promotion]] of [[outrage]]. What if we systematically promoted the idea of finding common goals?<br />
<br />
In an era of [[polarization]], persuasion is desired by all, but often viewed as a lost cause. Those on the other side of the debate are too far gone to even agree on a shared [[reality]], much less engage in an [[evidence-based]] debate that requires a shared acceptance of [[facts]]. <br />
<br />
There is ample evidence for the efficacy of these persuasive tactics. They can be promoted on either side of the [[political]] divide, since both sides would ultimately like to persuade the other to their position. But if they all start using the common ground tactic in order to do this, it will completely change the shape of discourse and the entire [[political]] landscape as a result.<br />
<br />
Tactics are non-partisan. If we want to heal political polarization, changing tactics is far more effective than collecting and presenting more evidence for your side.<br />
<br />
== Persuasive Videos ==<br />
<br />
If these videos don't convince you of the power of persuasion then nothing will!<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uI3MgaFrKUw||center|How To Convince Others - Power of Persuasion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HctZg2aOPMw||center|The psychological trick behind getting people to say yes|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNr08R5sI6U||center|Persuasion: The Psychology of Leading People|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KULprhW5mWc||center|Osees - Persuaders Up!|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUBqJzLPjXE||center|Doechii - Persuasive|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Persuasion&diff=3985Persuasion2024-03-11T13:48:51Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Persuasion-debate-argument-common-ground-polarization.jpg|thumb|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMq-ZnLwyeA There's got to be a better way!]]]<br />
Is it better to be technically correct? Or is it better to be heard and understood?<br />
<br />
What is the point of entering into a debate in the first place, if not to persuade the other person? <br />
<br />
And if the point is to persuade, why is the majority of modern discourse consist of people talking past each other? Repeating tired old arguments and reflexive responses like two amateur chess players that memorized the same strategy book. <br />
<br />
Modern discourse does not seek to understand, connect, identify, or resonate with the other person, simply to "win" in the eyes of some nonexistent judge, and gain the approval of the already convinced on [[social media]].<br />
<br />
[https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/us-2-0-win-hearts-then-minds/ This recent episode of Hidden Brain makes many of these same points very well].<br />
<br />
== The Importance of Persuasion ==<br />
The debate of [[science]] versus [[superstition]] and [[misinformation]] is one of the most important debates in human [[history]]. It is of the utmost importance that enough people are convinced of this before nuclear [[war]], [[climate change]], or some other existential global calamity is caused by [[In-group|humanity's inability to come together as one]].<br />
<br />
Every perspective taken in [[metaculture]] has the ability to connect and persuade its intended audience in mind. Even the choice to make a [[wiki]] in order to present these ideas, since it offers the ability to use the language feature to [[wikipedia:Code-switching|code switch]] the entire [[philosophy]]. This not only translates it into other languages, but allows switching out [[religious]] [[allegories]], [[music]] and pop [[culture]] references, and debate styles, aligning it with both [[cultural]] and generational differences to maximize the benefit of the doubt we naturally give to our [[in-group]].<br />
<br />
== Making a Complete Argument ==<br />
Debates in general, but especially on [[social media]], suffer from the limitation that you can only convey a tiny fraction of your point in any given statement. You may have the weight of multiple postgraduate degrees worth of knowledge and experience behind a single statement, but the other side has no way of knowing any of that [[information]]. <br />
<br />
Judging by the discourse, most people seem to operate on the assumption that a few sentences in a [[social media]] post represents the totality of your consideration of the subject. The idea that you could have any supporting arguments, data, or nuance in your opinion is never taken for granted. How can you overcome this?<br />
<br />
The [[wiki]] offers a way to tie any single point you make to an entire system of thought behind it. If you generally agree with the [[perspective]] given here, then you can link any page in this [[wiki]] into a [[social media]] comment and the entire [[philosophy]] behind it can be explored, providing all of the background reasoning, evidence, and nuance that a single post could never capture.<br />
<br />
== Strategies for Political and Theological Persuasion ==<br />
When dealing with core identity topics like [[politics]] and [[religion]], a number of strategies should be employed to avoid emotional and reflexive reactions instead of considered attention to evidence and reasoning.<br />
<br />
=== Use Narrative and Allegory ===<br />
The [[brain]] leans much more easily through narratives and [[allegories]] than it does with [[reason]] and [[Evidence-based best practices|evidence]]. This is especially true for people with [[spiritual]] mindsets, but generally speaking only those who have had advanced [[science]] [[education]] have trained their [[brains]] to prioritize evidence over [[emotion]]. And that training still fails much of the [[time]]!<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, most popular [[science]] is written by scientists who tend to shy away from these types of argument through [[allegory]], and when they do they are really bad at it from lack of practice. And a pervasive disdain for anecdotal evidence in the [[science]] community hampers their ability to tell stories that connect on a human level.<br />
<br />
If you are arguing for [[reason]], you are allowed to make ''passionate'', [[emotional]] arguments for [[reason]]! It is a vitally important topic to the [[future]] of humanity!!!<br />
<br />
Of course, the arguments should always be [[Truth|truthful]]. But [[truth]] told through an [[emotional]] story is more easily absorbed by the [[brain]], and failure to use them in debate represents unilateral disarmament against an opponent with no such qualms.<br />
<br />
=== Avoid Established Out-group Identities ===<br />
Most established [[Ideology|ideologies]] and [[belief systems]] have names that are well known to [[religious]] [[fundamentalists]] and have already been identified as an [[out-group]] that should not be listened to. This is particularly true for [[Secular humanist|secular humanism]], which many [[fundamentalists]] claim is the new [[progressive]] [[religion]].[https://tif.ssrc.org/2011/02/25/secular-humanism-the-christian-right-and-progressive-education/] <br />
<br />
[[Universalists]], [[pantheists]], and others that deny [[Literalists|literalist]] interpretations of [[scripture]] are also well known, and invoking them will trigger established [[psychological]] defenses. Don't even try to mention [[socialism]]!<br />
<br />
A successful movement towards [[secular]] [[universalism]] will require new terminology whose definitions and meaning can be established in the [[culture]] before the forces of [[fundamentalism]] can slander them. Until it becomes well-known, [[metaculture]] can be invoked in personal conversations and it comes with no [[prejudice]] beyond the implied meaning of the word. You are now free to describe what you believe in a [[compatibilist]] way while avoiding the established [[psychological]] roadblocks.<br />
<br />
=== Avoid Attacking Someone's Core Identity ===<br />
This point should be obvious but apparently it is not, given how many [[atheists]] start their conversations with [[theists]] by attacking [[religion]] right out of the gate. The only reason to do this is to elicit a reaction, since there is obviously no persuasive power in such a tactic. This is not discourse, it is [[trolling]].<br />
<br />
No argument that is presented in opposition to someone's core [[belief systems]], be they [[supernatural]], [[libertarian]], or [[trauma-induced]], will get any traction. The only way to be persuasive is to identify as part of the [[in-group]] of your counterpart. This lets you leverage [[in-group]] bias in your favor, and avoids [[out-group]] [[skepticism]] and [[contrarianism]]. <br />
<br />
To start your conversation by establishing yourself as a member of the [[in-group]], you must first find common ground before you can address the points where you already know you will disagree.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Common Goals ===<br />
Behind every opinion is a goal, some objective the person is trying to achieve that they think will be better served if we do whatever they are saying. But what is that goal? it is often unstated and assumed. By focusing attention on the goal, you usually end up establishing common ground, because we are all humans and we all share the same ultimate goal of increasing [[Happiness and well-being|happiness]] and [[quality of life]]. If you trace each intermediate goal back to its original purpose, all roads lead to this one true goal shared by all of humanity. <br />
<br />
Now you are part of the [[in-group]] and you are ready to have a totally different conversation.<br />
<br />
=== How Can Atheists and Theists Find Common Ground? ===<br />
The first thing that most [[atheists]] and [[theists]] can agree on is the fact that [[literalism]] is a false and dangerous way to interpret [[scripture]] and [[allegory]] is the correct way. [[Atheists]] tend to be biased and assume most theists are [[fundamentalists]], because many of them come from those backgrounds. They will be surprised to find common ground if they really explore the topic of [[literalism]] versus [[allegory]] with most believers.<br />
<br />
It works in reverse, too. [[Theists]] who wish to find common ground with an [[atheist]] can also employ this tactic.<br />
<br />
The other really good way for [[atheists]] to find common ground is to go the way Einstein and Sagan, stop being [[atheists]], and start being [[Pantheists]]. The [[atheism]] page lays out the many rhetorical and [[psychological]] benefits of doing this.<br />
<br />
The technique of [[metaphor mapping]] is also employed to show how [[religious]] beliefs are [[allegories]] for real, observable phenomena in the [[universe]], and [[rituals]] can elicit the [[placebo effect]] to heal us [[psychologically]].<br />
<br />
And, of course, you can always focus on your common goals.<br />
<br />
=== How Can Progressives and Libertarians Find Common Ground? ===<br />
Having extensively explored and actively campaigned on both sides of this issue, this author feels uniquely qualified to address the question of where these two [[Politics|political]] [[philosophies]] have common ground.<br />
<br />
The first is in the concept of [[freedom]], which is a core [[libertarian]] value that [[progressives]] also share as a common goal. Exploring what it truly means to be free in a [[Capitalism|capitalist]] society where [[billionaires]] often have much more [[power]] and control over your [[available life choices]] and [[free will]] than the [[government]], is an effective way for [[progressives]] and [[libertarians]] to have a productive discussion.<br />
<br />
The second is the concept of the [[wikipedia:Non-aggression_principle|non-aggression principle]], which is another core [[libertarian]] value that most [[progressives]] can get on board with. I don't know a lot of [[progressives]] that are gung-ho about the police state and support the prosecution of victimless crimes like [[drugs]] and prostitution for consenting adults.<br />
<br />
Many [[libertarians]] have been heavily influenced by [[capitalist]] [[propaganda]] and assume that anyone to the left of Ronald Reagan is an [[authoritarian]] [[communist]] that ultimately wants to destroy [[capitalism]]. When you know what their core values and goals are, and demonstrate that you share them, you can now be seen as part of the [[in-group]] instead of a commie bastard.<br />
<br />
Likewise, most [[Progressive|progressives]] are not actually [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Communist|communists]], and actually support [[capitalism]] as long as it has nothing to do with whether or not you can get [[healthcare]]. If you are a [[libertarian]] and want to find common ground with a [[progressive]], this tactic is equally effective in reverse.<br />
<br />
== What If We All Debated This Way? ==<br />
If the tactic of finding common goals and establishing a shared [[in-group]] prior to discussing sensitive issues about our [[belief systems]] were to become widespread, it would form a new [[generating equation]] that could significantly accelerate the creation of a [[universal in-group]].<br />
<br />
[[Platforms|Social media]] has created a [[generating equation]] that has accelerated [[trolling]], [[contrarianism]], [[misinformation]], and [[grift]] through the systematic [[promotion]] of [[outrage]]. What if we systematically promoted the idea of finding common goals?<br />
<br />
In an era of [[polarization]], persuasion is desired by all, but often viewed as a lost cause. Those on the other side of the debate are too far gone to even agree on a shared [[reality]], much less engage in an [[evidence-based]] debate that requires a shared acceptance of [[facts]]. <br />
<br />
There is ample evidence for the efficacy of these persuasive tactics. They can be promoted on either side of the [[political]] divide, since both sides would ultimately like to persuade the other to their position. But if they all start using the common ground tactic in order to do this, it will completely change the shape of discourse and the entire [[political]] landscape as a result.<br />
<br />
Tactics are non-partisan. If we want to heal political polarization, changing tactics is far more effective than collecting and presenting more evidence for your side.<br />
<br />
== Persuasive Videos ==<br />
<br />
If these videos don't convince you of the power of persuasion then nothing will!<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uI3MgaFrKUw||center|How To Convince Others - Power of Persuasion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HctZg2aOPMw||center|The psychological trick behind getting people to say yes|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNr08R5sI6U||center|Persuasion: The Psychology of Leading People|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KULprhW5mWc||center|Osees - Persuaders Up!|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUBqJzLPjXE||center|Doechii - Persuasive|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3984Main Page2024-03-11T13:34:13Z<p>Fractalguy: /* A New Metanarrative */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[Belief System|mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Kind of Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie a modern understanding of Scientific Realism that accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the [[psychological]] and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a new [[metanarrative]], allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
<br />
For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe></div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3983Main Page2024-03-11T13:28:54Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Core Tenets */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[Belief System|mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie a modern understanding of Scientific Realism that accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the [[psychological]] and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a new [[metanarrative]], allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
<br />
For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe></div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Good_Faith_Conservatism&diff=3982Good Faith Conservatism2024-03-11T13:23:54Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Conservative-politician-about-to-make-a-bad-faith-argument.jpg|thumb|Conservative stock photo making a bad faith argument]]<br />
[[Good faith|Good Faith]] Conservatism is necessary for the [[balance of power]]. However, much of the modern conservative movement has lost the ability to debate in god faith, and have devolved into [[contrarianism]] and [[trolling]].<br />
<br />
A prime example in U.S. politics is Obamacare, which was taken entirely from Mitt Romney's conservative [[healthcare]] plan that maintains privatization and insurance [[monopolies]]. As soon as it was embraced by [[progressives]], it became a [[socialist]] takeover that will lead to "death panels". This is the opposite of [[good faith]].<br />
<br />
A more recent example of the exact same thing can be found in the 2024 bipartisan immigration bill, which offered everything conservatives have been asking for but was opposed because it would take away an important wedge issue.<br />
<br />
The world needs advocates for sensible policy, not spending more than we can afford, and not letting progress leave behind those who don't wish to be on the cutting edge. The path to achieving this is not to demonize conservatives and treat them as an [[out-group]], but to acknowledge the important role that [[good faith]] conservatism plays, and recognize, be open and accepting when conservatives debate in [[good faith]].<br />
<br />
This can also be encouraged if we all reject the use of [[out-group]] bias and terminology in our [[political]] discourse generally. Neither side is ''the enemy'' we are on the same side! We all win when a compromise is found that brings us further towards our goal of a [[happier]] [[society]] that doesn't break the bank or limit our [[freedom]].<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pVdSEp-tT8||center|Debate world champion explains how to argue|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3BQt4IuM4c||center|The Ivy - Good Faith|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Generating_equation&diff=3981Generating equation2024-03-11T13:21:35Z<p>Fractalguy: /* In Society */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Generating-function-equation-fractal-math-complexity.jpg|thumb|Math nonsense to evoke a sense of "equations"]]<br />
The notion of a [[wikipedia:Generating_function|Generating Equation]] or [[wikipedia:Generating_function|Generating Function]] is used to help explain a variety of [[complex systems]] we are forced to deal with in [[life]].<br />
<br />
== In Fractals ==<br />
<br />
A [[fractal]] is based on a simple [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Generating_function generating equation] that is used to calculate its form. For example, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandelbrot_set Mandelbrot set] has a generating equation of z = z^2 + c. That equation, repeated infinitely, creates the infinitely complex pattern pictured here.<br />
<br />
A slight change in the parameters of the generating equation can dramatically change the resulting [[fractal]] pattern. Anyone that has ever played with a [http://usefuljs.net/fractals/ Fractal Generator] [https://sciencevsmagic.net/fractal/] [https://aiartists.org/fractal-art-generators] has seen these effects firsthand. If you've never tried it you absolutely ''must''.<br />
<br />
== In [[Allegory]] ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|Simple equation, infinite complexity|thumb]]<br />
<br />
A [[complex system]] of any kind is similar to a [[fractal]]. It is [[self-organizing]], and the form it takes depends on the rules being followed by the individual actors in that system. In the [[Fractal|Mandelbrot fractal]], each pixel is assigned a color depending on the result of a calculation. In [[society]], the shape of our [[institutions]] is determined by the people who make it up, and the rules their [[brains]] obey.<br />
<br />
If you want to change the pattern of a [[fractal]], you can try to modify the result of the equation after it has been formed, or you can modify the equation itself. Given the infinite number of unique patterns generated by the equation, it is obvious that trying to override the resulting pattern is fruitless. Your efforts will always be overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
The same applies to [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]]. Because they are all based on [[complex systems]], they must be treated as such. While it may seem more difficult to resolve the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]] in order to achieve narrower goals like addressing [[climate change]], it is unfortunately the [[necessary prerequisite]].<br />
<br />
== In the Creation of the Universe ==<br />
<br />
The [[laws of physics]] are the generating equation for the [[universe]]. Matter and energy recombine according to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fundamental_interaction fundamental forces of physics] and those rules result in elements, stars, planets, and [[life]]. Change any of these fundamental rules and you get a completely different [[universe]]. Granted, most of them will annihilate themselves nanoseconds after their [[creation]], but they are still quite different.<br />
<br />
== In the Creation of Life ==<br />
<br />
DNA is the generating equation for living organisms. Small changes in our genes can have significant impacts on how our bodies form. Genes are read and replicated over trillions of iterations until we reach our final form. If you want to change the form or function of a living organism, it is much more effective to change its genes than to modify the fully grown body.<br />
<br />
== In Ourselves ==<br />
<br />
Our [[belief systems]] form the generating equation for our souls, and the pattern of behavior it creates reverberates forever in the [[afterlife]].<br />
<br />
== In Society ==<br />
<br />
The rules built into our [[religious]] and [[legal]] systems are like the generating equation for our [[culture]] and [[society]]. And when we examine these rules we find that each of them is part of a pattern of rules, all based on the generating equation of our fundamental [[moral]] principles surrounding [[life]] and [[death]].<br />
<br />
The [[quality of life versus quantity of life]] dichotomy represents the two fundamental viewpoints about what the most important [[moral]] considerations in [[life]] are. Which one you prioritize determines your position on a wide variety of divisive issues. These are the generating equations for most [[progressive]] versus [[Good Faith Conservatism|conservative]] viewpoints.<br />
<br />
When attempting to make changes in [[society]], it is much easier to change the generating equation behind people's opinion on a range of issues, rather than trying to influence them on individual issues. If you want people to support reproductive [[freedom]], and [[sustainability]], and [[racial equality]], and [[universal health care]], you can choose to ignore [[fundamentalist]] [[religion]] and debate each issue on its merits, or you can address the [[belief system]] at the core of people's identity that leads them to oppose things that would improve [[quality of life]].<br />
<br />
Focusing on the generating equation behind any set of [[beliefs]] is the best way to effect large-scale changes in [[society]].<br />
<br />
When you strip away [[religion]] and [[cultural]] influences and get down to the core of what drives people's [[morality]] and general outlook on life, it's [[quality of life versus quantity of life]].<br />
<br />
== The Fundamental Fractals ==<br />
When you strip beliefs down to the ultimate [[goal]] that they serve, you see how the way that goal is framed, and how we try to optimize our [[ethical]] and [[legal]] systems in service of that goal, creates a unique [[Fractal Geometry of God|fractal pattern]] that reflects and shapes all of the [[beliefs]] that are reasoned from that premise.<br />
<br />
The following fundamental [[fractals]] form the foundations from which our [[beliefs]] flow.<br />
<br />
* The [[God Concept]] and your general perspective on [[reality]]--[[allegory]] and [[science]] or [[literalism]]?<br />
* How to pursue [[Happiness and well-being|happiness]]--via [[Quality of life versus quantity of life|quantity of life or quality of life]]?<br />
* Is the [[universe]] a good place to live or a bad one?<br />
<br />
Which side of these three core dichotomies you fall on, and in what combination, determines the vast majority of your [[Ethics|ethical]], [[Religion|religious]], and [[political]] viewpoints.<br />
<br />
== In Detail ==<br />
<br />
Here's how these simple equations generate the amazing [[fractals]] this [[wiki]] keeps going on about.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2jeFDjdJ-s||center|Understanding the Mandelbrot Set|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovJcsL7vyrk||center|This Equation Will Change How You See the World|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNPm_W9Pmlc||center|Modest Mouse - Never Ending Math Equation|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Life_choices&diff=3980Life choices2024-03-11T13:07:53Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Life-choices-relevance-liklihood-best-practices-evidence.jpg|thumb|Say yes to life]]<br />
When used in [[metaculture]], life choices refers broadly to the important decisions that you have to make in your life to build sustainable [[happiness]] and fulfillment, and the relevant [[information]] and [[beliefs]] about the [[universe]] that is needed to inform those decisions.<br />
<br />
The point being made is that as long as you are ''functionally rational'', meaning your life choices and [[politics]] are based on [[reason]] and [[evidence-based best practices]] rather than [[dogma]], it doesn't really matter what your view on the [[supernatural]] is, or any other metaphysical opinions you may hold.<br />
<br />
== What is Relevant? ==<br />
<br />
So much of [[spirituality]] and speculative scientific theories like [[quantum mechanics]] spend a lot of time focusing on aspects of the [[universe]] that are irrelevant to our life choices.<br />
<br />
Does it matter if there is a [[multiverse]]? Or if we are living in a [[Simulation Theory|simulation]]? Or if the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deism deist] version of [[god]] set the [[universe]] in motion? In all cases we still exist within a single, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Procedural_generation procedurally generated] [[universe]] that, according to every confirmed observation, conforms to consistent [[Laws of physics|physical laws]]. <br />
<br />
And we must figure out how to live a [[happy]] life, having found ourselves existing within such a [[universe]]. To do so it is important to separate the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal-to-noise_ratio signal from the noise] when informing those decisions to avoid [[information overload]].<br />
<br />
There is also a significant amount of [[grift]] out there from people claiming to offer advice but really only have expensive seminars and [[placebo]] based supplements to sell you. [[metaculture]] helps you identify [[grift]] and ignore it.<br />
<br />
== What is Best? ==<br />
<br />
Once we've determined what information is relevant to consider for our life choices, it becomes a matter of determining [[best practices]] based on the available [[information]] to find a course that is likely to lead to [[happiness]].<br />
<br />
In [[life]] we rarely deal with complete and incontrovertible information. Most of the time you have to take the best available information and [[The Gambler|place a bet]] on what you think is most likely. When viewed this way it becomes easy to discard more unlikely theories and move past indecision and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnosticism agnosticism].<br />
<br />
== What is Available? ==<br />
When you combine deterministic [[free will]] with a consideration of life choices you come to the conclusion that [[freedom]] means the increasing of available life choices that can realistically be pursued within the [[Politics|political]], [[Economics|economic]], and [[Social norms|social norm]] constraints of the [[society]] you live in.<br />
<br />
== What's Happening Under the Hood? ==<br />
Too many people, particularly [[atheists]] and [[fundamentalists]], get caught up in the details of our [[theological]] [[beliefs]] rather than focusing on the resulting life choices, which are ultimately all that matters to other people.<br />
<br />
It doesn't matter whether you are an [[atheist]], agnostic, [[pantheist]], panentheist, deist, Buddhist, or theist that believes in a [[supernatural]] creator, as long as you acknowledge that the [[universe]] operates according to the [[laws of physics]] and therefore we must use [[science]] and [[reason]] to uncover [[evidence-based best practices]] for maximizing [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]. If you base your decisions on [[science]] and [[reason]], it really doesn't matter what your [[supernatural]] or [[spiritual]] [[beliefs]] are. Functionally, you are a rational person whose [[politics]] and decision making can be [[trusted]] not to steer humanity towards [[apocalypse]].<br />
<br />
== What is On the Tube? ==<br />
<br />
Some choices happen once in a lifetime and change everything. Other choices you make every day. The question of what to watch falls in the latter category. Here are some suggestions.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x18bXxW3yhY||center|Every Person Is One Choice Away From Everything Changingframe}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HEnohs6yYw||center|The Choice|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AP0oQCh_teg||center|George Jones - Choices|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=God&diff=3979God2024-03-11T13:00:39Z<p>Fractalguy: /* What Has All of These Properties? */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Blue Mandelbrot.png|right|frameless]]<br />
This page establishes a definition for god that will be used throughout the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
== How Do You Define God? ==<br />
<br />
In any discussion of religion it is important to start with a definition of what "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God god]" is.<br />
<br />
Each person both holds a mental picture of what "god" means to them, along with presuppositions for what "god" means to others, especially if they subscribe to a different [[religious]] [[belief system]].<br />
<br />
Most of the time those presuppositions are wrong and inevitably result in misunderstanding.<br />
<br />
So before any substantive discussion of [[religion]] takes place it is important to agree on, or at least understand, what both parties mean when they refer to "god".<br />
<br />
== Properties of God ==<br />
<br />
In monotheistic [[traditions]], "god" has several common attributes:<br />
<br />
<ul><br />
<li>[[Creation]] of the [[universe]]</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnipotent Omnipotent] - all powerful</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omniscient Omniscient] - all knowing</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnipresent Omnipresent] - exists everywhere</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnibenevolent Omnibenevolent] - all good</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysical_necessity Inevitable] - must be</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eternal_existence Eternal] - always has been, always will be</li><br />
<li>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcendence_(religion) Transcendent] (exists outside the material plane), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immanence Immanent] (exists materially) or both</li><br />
</ul><br />
<br />
== What Has All of These Properties? ==<br />
<br />
Is there anything that exists in the known [[universe]] that can exhibit all of these properties? Only the [[universe]] itself both exists and has all of the properties ascribed to god. Therefore any references to "god" that are made within this [[wiki]] shall assume the [[Pantheistic]] definition for the immanent version of god.<br />
<br />
[[Fractals]] will serve a [[mathematical]] [[metaphor]] for the transcendent aspect of god ([[logic]]).<br />
<br />
Here's a breakdown of how the [[pantheistic]] [[universalist]] [[fractal]] view of god is compatible with each of these traits.<br />
<br />
[[Creation]]: the [[universe]] is self-creating and [[self-organizing]]. These principles are also why the [[universe]] is [[Inevitable]][https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysical_necessity].<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnipotent Omnipotent]: unless you want to get into [[logical]] paradoxes like god creating a rock so big that god cannot lift it, omnipotence must be interpreted as being all-powerful within the realm of [[logical]] possibility. This is why the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law_of_noncontradiction Law of Noncontradiction] exists both in most serious works of [[theology]] as well as the rules of [[logic]].<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omniscient Omniscient]: the problem of information storage means that without some supernatural compression algorithm, for any external being to have full knowledge of every atom in the [[universe]] it would require an information storage mechanism as large as the [[universe]] itself to represent it. Therefore the universe itself is the only conceivable storage device capable of omniscience.<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnipresent Omnipresent]: if god is the [[universe]], then god is everywhere.<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omnibenevolent Omnibenevolent]: since god is [[everything]], god is also [[everything]] that is [[good]]. While [[good]] and [[evil]] are products of the human [[brain]], the human [[brain]] is also part of the [[universe]] and therefore part of god. The [[universe]] itself is not necessarily on either side of the [[good]] versus [[evil]] dichotomy, but the human [[brain]] is. The notion of omnibenevolence is necessary to maximize the [[psychological]] benefit of the [[god concept]]. Even though the [[universe]] itself isn't [[conscious]] and definitely doesn't care about you, it is inherently advantageous to view it as ''a very good place to live one's life''.<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eternal_existence Eternal]: while the current instance of our universe appears to have a beginning with the big bang about 13.8 billion years ago, and will [[Apocalypse Prevention|inevitably collapse or experience heat death]] in another 200 billion years (give or take), this still doesn't quite make it to "eternal". For organisms with a [[lifespan]] of under 100 years, this is pretty darned eternal. But if you really want time to be infinite then it becomes necessary to look outside of our current [[universe]]. Though we currently lack the technology to gain empirical knowledge of what lies outside the known [[universe]], it is easy to conceive an eternal multiverse without a supernatural actor. The [[universe]] could simply repeat its 200 billion year cycle of [[birth]] and [[death]] over and over forever, or it could be a part of a multiverse with an infinite number of [[Universe|universes]] being created and destroyed every second.<br />
<br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcendence_(religion) Transcendent]: this is the one property of god that the physical [[universe]] cannot manifest, since by definition "transcendent" means apart from the physical [[universe]]. But there is something that exists in the abstract that governs everything that happens in the universe--the rules of [[logic]] and the [[mathematical]] systems that are derived from it. In [[metaculture]], the transcendent is represented by the [[fractal]], a [[mathematical]] construct that is [[infinite]], [[logical]], [[self-organizing]] and [[beautiful]]. God is the [[universe]] (implying [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immanence Immanence]) but the [[universe]] is also the product of the abstract rules of [[logic]] and therefore transcendent.<br />
<br />
== Advantages of This Definition ==<br />
<br />
Viewing god in this context resolves the logical paradoxes and contradictions inherent in any [[supernatural]] definition. It allows us to discuss god without abandoning [[science]], or even unify the study of [[science]] and [[religion]] under one umbrella. It allows for discourse between those with scientific backgrounds and those with [[religious]] ones under the understanding that one approach is empirical and the other intuitive but both seek to understand the same thing. While intuitive [[truths]] cannot supersede empirical ones, they can inform and inspire them if not dismissed.<br />
<br />
There is also evidence that prior to the development of the scientific method, the dualistic notion of god and the [[universe]] being wholly separate was not the common understanding (citations needed). In any case, any independent view of [[religion]] must come to the conclusion that each was an attempt to create an explanation using the language and stories of their culture of how the [[universe]] came to be and how humans should function within it, and to pass on their accumulated wisdom to future generations. Those not bound to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblical_literalism literalism] can find this interpretation allows you to take advantage of this ancient wisdom in a way that is fully compatible with a rational, scientific [[universe]] without internal contradiction.<br />
<br />
If you are a [[gambler]] and you have to put your money on one definition of god, from among every [[culture]] and [[religion]] throughout [[history]], don't you think that [[Pantheism]] is the safest bet?<br />
<br />
== Panpsychism and God's Consciousness ==<br />
<br />
Some [[pantheists]] use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panpsychism panpsychism] to imbue god with the property of [[consciousness]] and make it personal. However, there is no requirement for god to have [[consciousness]] except to fill a need created by [[literalism]] and [[tradition]], and to answer criticisms of [[pantheism]] based on that need.<br />
<br />
If the property of [[consciousness]] is essential to you, then take the emergent property of [[consciousness]] in [[neural network]] [[feedback loops]] as an [[inevitable]] property of the [[universe]] and the human [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collective_consciousness hive mind] as god's [[consciousness]]. We don't need to pretend that rocks and stars have [[consciousness]] for god to have it. If god's [[consciousness]] is an [[allegory]], what's it an [[allegory]] for?<br />
<br />
What is more relevant is whether there is [[historical]] and [[theological]] precedent for the [[pantheistic]] assumption based on the [[evolution]] of language and how our ancestors perceived the world without [[science]], and whether it works to resolve ideological conflict and [[cognitive dissonance]]. The the lack of a [[conscious]] [[supernatural]] god is a technicality that philosophers and theologians can bicker over. <br />
<br />
If [[pantheism]] makes more sense to you then it makes more sense and it doesn't matter what any [[religious]] authority says about it. And if panpsychism makes more sense to you and fulfills your expectation of a [[conscious]] god, it doesn't really matter what this [[wiki]] says about it. Especially since it's unlikely to impact your [[life choices]] in any meaningful way.<br />
<br />
== The God Concept ==<br />
<br />
A discussion of the [[god concept]], which examines the [[psychological]] construct created by god and its impact on the [[happiness]] of the believer, can be found [[God concept|here]].<br />
<br />
== The Sierpinski Trinity ==<br />
<br />
Besides these general properties that apply to any of the monotheistic [[traditions]], there is also the [[Trinity]] in Christianity. See the [[Sierpinski Trinity]] page for an an analysis of how the [[fractal]] makes sense of the relationship between the three aspects of god, and how and the [[Holy Spirit]] is an [[allegory]] for the [[god concept]].<br />
<br />
== Many of the Same Things but in a Video ==<br />
<br />
This video does a good job of explaining how [[pantheism]] fulfills the working definition of god detailed here. <br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpz9Ec8Il38||center|Is the Universe God? Pantheism Explained and Debated|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
A discussion of [[pantheism]] as it relates to the [[philosophy]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baruch_Spinoza Spinoza]. Saints of [[science]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Einstein Einstein] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Sagan Sagan] both reference Spinoza when asked about their own [[God concept|concept of god]].<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gioaH2kFaIM||center|Spinoza's God|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
From the [[pantheistic]] point of view we are all [[god]], but not all of us are rap gods.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbGs_qK2PQA||center|Eminem - Rap God|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=War&diff=3978War2024-03-11T12:46:38Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Is the /s Really Needed? */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:War-make-love-not-what-is-it-good-for-absolutely-nothing.jpg|thumb|Certainly sounds preferable]]<br />
War. What is it good for?<br />
<br />
== Taking Over Other People's Territory ==<br />
<br />
If someone has a lot of nice land and you want it, war is generally the best option for obtaining it.<br />
<br />
== Polygamy ==<br />
<br />
Do you live in a polygamist society and have a lot of extra dudes wandering around with nothing to do? Start a war!<br />
<br />
== People Keep Talking About Your Sex Scandal ==<br />
<br />
Go ahead--[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wag_the_Dog wag that dog]!<br />
<br />
== Oil, Oil, and More Oil ==<br />
<br />
You need oil. They have oil. Start a war!<br />
<br />
== Narcissistic Orange Man is Sore Loser ==<br />
<br />
There's no need to accept an election if you don't like the result. Might makes right! Start a war!<br />
<br />
== Revolution! ==<br />
<br />
Your government has oppressed you for long enough. It's time for ''you'' to become the oppressor! Start a Revolution!<br />
<br />
== Is the /s Really Needed? ==<br />
<br />
Obviously a [[philosophy]] with the goal of creating a [[In-group|universal in-group]] is fundamentally against war. War [[is bad]].<br />
<br />
Professing a [[belief]] in [[metaculture]] should be grounds to excuse you from military service as a pacifist. However, it should also not prevent you from serving in a war of territorial defense, or one in which you feel deep personal conviction for its justness. The goal is realism, not idealism, and self-determination not [[dogma]]. Conscripted military service should never be necessary because any truly just cause will attract the necessary volunteers without it.<br />
<br />
Is it possible to end all major wars between nations by creating a common cause? Will it require a common federalist-style global government to solve disputes between nations? What change in human [[consciousness]] will be required to allow the majority of people to accept such an idea? Currently any mention of a "new world order" elicits a [[contrarian]] and [[conspiratorial]] backlash. But without one, how will we ever solve the problem of war? Just asking questions. Peace-baiting questions.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCaiHbNz0kU||center|Ali G - War|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmNXzMw69zI||center|Edwin Starr - War: What is it Good For?|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XHEPoMNP0I||center|Bob Marley - War|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=War&diff=3977War2024-03-11T12:40:50Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Oil, Oil, and More Oil */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:War-make-love-not-what-is-it-good-for-absolutely-nothing.jpg|thumb|Certainly sounds preferable]]<br />
War. What is it good for?<br />
<br />
== Taking Over Other People's Territory ==<br />
<br />
If someone has a lot of nice land and you want it, war is generally the best option for obtaining it.<br />
<br />
== Polygamy ==<br />
<br />
Do you live in a polygamist society and have a lot of extra dudes wandering around with nothing to do? Start a war!<br />
<br />
== People Keep Talking About Your Sex Scandal ==<br />
<br />
Go ahead--[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wag_the_Dog wag that dog]!<br />
<br />
== Oil, Oil, and More Oil ==<br />
<br />
You need oil. They have oil. Start a war!<br />
<br />
== Narcissistic Orange Man is Sore Loser ==<br />
<br />
There's no need to accept an election if you don't like the result. Might makes right! Start a war!<br />
<br />
== Revolution! ==<br />
<br />
Your government has oppressed you for long enough. It's time for ''you'' to become the oppressor! Start a Revolution!<br />
<br />
== Is the /s Really Needed? ==<br />
<br />
Obviously a [[philosophy]] with the goal of creating a [[In-group|universal in-group]] is fundamentally against war. War [[is bad]].<br />
<br />
Is it possible to end all major wars between nations by creating a common cause? Will it require a common federalist-style global government to solve disputes between nations? What change in human [[consciousness]] will be required to allow the majority of people to accept such an idea? Currently any mention of a "new world order" elicits a [[contrarian]] and [[conspiratorial]] backlash. But without one, how will we ever solve the problem of war? Just asking questions. Peace-baiting questions.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCaiHbNz0kU||center|Ali G - War|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmNXzMw69zI||center|Edwin Starr - War: What is it Good For?|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XHEPoMNP0I||center|Bob Marley - War|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Apocalypse_Prevention&diff=3976Apocalypse Prevention2024-03-11T12:39:16Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Apocalypse Prevention */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Apocalypse-war-end-times-eschatology-zionism.jpg|thumb|Can we agree that [[Is bad|the apocalypse is a bad thing]]?]]<br />
A significant number of [[religions]] and [[cults]] make some prediction about how the [[universe]] will end. The technical term for this is [[wikipedia:Eschatology|eschatology]].<br />
<br />
These are usually referred to as "[[wikipedia:Apocalyptic_literature|apocalypse]]" events, particularly in the Abrahamic traditions. Other depictions of the end times in [[scripture]] include the [[wikipedia:Hindu_eschatology|Hindu god Kalki]] and [[wikipedia:Frashokereti|Zoroastrian Frashokereti]].<br />
<br />
[[metaculture]]'s [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] is decidedly anti-apocalypse.<br />
<br />
== Scientific Eschatology ==<br />
The wiki page "[[wikipedia:Ultimate_fate_of_the_universe|Ultimate fate of the universe]]" discusses the [[scientific]] theories that attempt to predict the manner and [[time]] in which the [[universe]] will end. This is the [[wikipedia:Eschatology|eschatology]] of [[science]].<br />
<br />
Fortunately all evidence indicates that this event is many billions of years away, and not something we need to concern our [[life choices]] with. Therefore, most of the [[time]] our [[brains]] spend thinking about the end of the world is time that could be spent thinking about doing something to [[Altruism|help people]] and making the existing world a better place, or better yet actually doing it!<br />
<br />
== Apocalypse Allegories ==<br />
In many cases, the notion of an [[wikipedia:Apocalyptic_literature|apocalypse]] or [[wikipedia:Rapture|rapture]] event is used as an [[allegory]] for [[war]] and the transformative changes in [[society]] that can arise [[wikipedia:Phoenix_(mythology)|like the phoenix]] from the ashes of the old.<br />
<br />
Notions of a [[supernatural]] [[afterlife]] can make this a confusing [[metaphor]]. You could be talking about toppling the government of Rome, and [[literalists]] think you mean that angels are going to descend from the heavens any day now and start smiting people on your behalf. Instead of starting a movement, you breed complacency. Or, even worse, you encourage people to seek it out.<br />
<br />
== The Apocalypse Is Bad ==<br />
The apocalypse [[is bad]]. Don't look forward to the end of the world. Don't welcome the apocalypse with open arms. [[wikipedia:Christian_Zionism|Don't make geopolitical decisions to help bring it about]].<br />
<br />
This stuff should be obvious, but therein lies the problem with a [[Literalism|literalist]] view of the [[afterlife]]. For the [[Literalism|literalist]], [[everyone]] [[Death|dying]] means [[everyone]] goes to [[heaven]], except the people you don't like who go to [[hell]]. It turns what is actually the worst case scenario imaginable and re-casts it as the best case scenario.<br />
<br />
In most cases, looking on the bright side of negative events is very good for promoting [[happiness]]. This is not the case when it comes to the apocalypse, whether you are using it as a [[metaphor]] for [[war]] and [[revolution]], or talking about the actual end of [[existence]].<br />
<br />
== Apocalypse Prevention ==<br />
<br />
The [[philosophy]] and [[theology]] of [[metaculture]] accepts the eventual heat death of the [[universe]] will come, and until that time its practitioners should do anything in their power to avoid human extinction. This should come naturally to [[evolved]] lifeforms.<br />
<br />
However, this does not mean that we should sacrifice the [[happiness and well-being]] of the living to ensure the survival of [[future humans]], as is suggested by [[wikipedia:Longtermism|longtermism]]. It doesn't make sense to neglect the issue of [[poverty]] in order to colonize other planets a little faster, just in case some extinction event happens on Earth. We will get to space. In fact, we will probably get there faster if we can actually get the people on Earth to live their best lives instead of grinding away in poverty so that billionaires can colonize Mars. We'll probably go a long way to avoid extinction by [[war]] in the process.<br />
<br />
In the interest of apocalypse prevention, issues like [[climate change]] and the proliferation of [[weapons of mass destruction]] should be considered high priorities. This is why the creation of a [[universal in-group]] is vitally important.<br />
<br />
If it should be possible to escape the end of this [[universe]] by creating or moving to another one, this option should be explored. However, [[Crypto-bros|it is premature to do so at this time]].<br />
<br />
== Apocalypse Now ==<br />
<br />
Have an immediate need for apocalypse content? Here you go!<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMhOeInNABw||center|Why We’re All Rooting for the Apocalypse|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0GFRcFm-aY||center|R.E.M. - It's The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
If you really want songs about apocalypse, heavy metal is the only way to go.<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/nUZVXtDVrc0||center|Metallica – Blackened|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/tLsQsirjmeo||center|Megadeth – Rust In Peace… Polaris|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/4aJT2p2_pDk||center|Black Sabbath – Electric Funeral|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/9qbRHY1l0vc||center|Iron Maiden – 2 Minutes To Midnight|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Religion&diff=3975Religion2024-03-11T12:24:16Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Religion-Universalism-Pantheism-Coexist-Bahai-Peace.jpg|thumb|Can't we all just get along?]]<br />
Religion is belief in [[god]] in practice. Those that share a common [[belief system]] will express those beliefs in their [[traditions]], [[rituals]] and worship practices.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately no such [[traditions]] exist for those with [[secular]] orientation. But since [[tradition]] and [[ritual]] are integral to [[culture]], it is necessary for [[metaculture]] to develop [[traditions]] and [[rituals]] that can reinforce modern values like [[freedom]], [[reason]], [[science]], [[equality]], etc. <br />
<br />
In order to remedy this situation, the first step is to enumerate all of the functions that religion serves in our [[society]] and personal [[psychology]], in order that we can find [[secular]] analogs for each that can perform the same function, or improve upon them. <br />
<br />
== Essential Components of Religion ==<br />
<br />
A fully fledged religion needs to have<br />
<br />
* A [[god]]<br />
* A [[creation]] story<br />
* An [[apocalypse]] story<br />
* Cultural [[history]]<br />
* A system of [[ethics]]<br />
* Enforcement of [[taboos]]<br />
* [[Rituals]] to celebrate [[life]]'s milestones like [[birth]], [[coming of age]], [[marriage]] and [[death]]<br />
* A [[metanarrative]] that provides [[meaning]], context, and easy transmission of a [[culture]]'s most critical beliefs<br />
* Enough followers to not be considered a ''cult''<br />
<br />
[[metaculture]] should provide all of these things in order to fully serve the social and [[God Concept|psychological functions of religion]] without contradicting the [[rational]], [[materialistic]] view of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
== metaculture's Core Theology ==<br />
<br />
The following theological beliefs have been [[Love|lovingly]] hand-crafted to provide the greatest compatibility with both [[science]] and an [[Allegory|allegorical]] reading of [[scripture]], while inspiring [[Wonder|wonder and awe]] in the [[universe]] and the [[Universal in-group|oneness of humankind]].<br />
<br />
* [[God|Definition of god]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalism]]<br />
* [[Fractal|The fractal geometry of god]]<br />
* [[God Concept|The god concept]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Morality and Ethics]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Faith|Faith and Certainty]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|The Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Apocalypse Prevention]]<br />
<br />
== Evolution of Religion ==<br />
<br />
Throughout [[history]], the [[traditions]] of one [[culture]] have been coopted and repurposed by the next. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia Saturnalia] becomes Christmas once the Roman Empire becomes a Christian state. This makes sense from a [[psychological]] perspective since it is much easier to redirect an existing [[habit]] than to form a new one from nothing. <br />
<br />
Christmas has already been coopted again by the [[god]] of [[capitalism]], and as such it should be embraced. Rather than being a selfish perversion of the teachings of Jesus, it can be a joyous celebration of all the wonderful stuff that [[capitalism]] is so good at producing. This is simply acknowledging the [[evolution]] in meaning that the Christmas holiday has already undergone. <br />
<br />
And this is the nature of [[rituals]]. They [[evolve]] and change their [[meaning]] with the tide of [[history]]. Old [[traditions]] become new by taking on new meaning imbued by [[future]] generations. Rarely are they simply made up out of whole cloth, and when they are it's more likely to become a [[cult]] than a religion.<br />
<br />
== Religion Videos ==<br />
<br />
There are a lot of videos on religion that could be chosen. Here are some of them.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9mFNgu6Cww||center|The Origins of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge071m9bGeY||center|The History of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYjqu09dudo||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Patrick McNamara|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqgPWx7wGSY||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Andrew Newberg|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GTWnU_IPdg||center|Mahavishnu Orchestra - Visions of the Emerald Beyond|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Religion&diff=3974Religion2024-03-11T12:23:49Z<p>Fractalguy: /* metaculture's Core Theology */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Religion-Universalism-Pantheism-Coexist-Bahai-Peace.jpg|thumb|Can't we all just get along?]]<br />
Religion is belief in [[god]] in practice. Those that share a common [[belief system]] will express those beliefs in their [[traditions]], [[rituals]] and worship practices.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately no such [[traditions]] exist for those with [[secular]] orientation. But since [[tradition]] and [[ritual]] are integral to [[culture]], it is necessary for [[metaculture]] to develop [[traditions]] and [[rituals]] that can reinforce modern values like [[freedom]], [[reason]], [[science]], [[equality]], etc. <br />
<br />
In order to remedy this situation, the first step is to enumerate all of the functions that religion serves in our [[society]] and personal [[psychology]], in order that we can find [[secular]] analogs for each that can perform the same function, or improve upon it. <br />
<br />
== Essential Components of Religion ==<br />
<br />
A fully fledged religion needs to have<br />
<br />
* A [[god]]<br />
* A [[creation]] story<br />
* An [[apocalypse]] story<br />
* Cultural [[history]]<br />
* A system of [[ethics]]<br />
* Enforcement of [[taboos]]<br />
* [[Rituals]] to celebrate [[life]]'s milestones like [[birth]], [[coming of age]], [[marriage]] and [[death]]<br />
* A [[metanarrative]] that provides [[meaning]], context, and easy transmission of a [[culture]]'s most critical beliefs<br />
* Enough followers to not be considered a ''cult''<br />
<br />
[[metaculture]] should provide all of these things in order to fully serve the social and [[God Concept|psychological functions of religion]] without contradicting the [[rational]], [[materialistic]] view of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
== metaculture's Core Theology ==<br />
<br />
The following theological beliefs have been [[Love|lovingly]] hand-crafted to provide the greatest compatibility with both [[science]] and an [[Allegory|allegorical]] reading of [[scripture]], while inspiring [[Wonder|wonder and awe]] in the [[universe]] and the [[Universal in-group|oneness of humankind]].<br />
<br />
* [[God|Definition of god]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalism]]<br />
* [[Fractal|The fractal geometry of god]]<br />
* [[God Concept|The god concept]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Morality and Ethics]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Faith|Faith and Certainty]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|The Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Apocalypse Prevention]]<br />
<br />
== Evolution of Religion ==<br />
<br />
Throughout [[history]], the [[traditions]] of one [[culture]] have been coopted and repurposed by the next. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia Saturnalia] becomes Christmas once the Roman Empire becomes a Christian state. This makes sense from a [[psychological]] perspective since it is much easier to redirect an existing [[habit]] than to form a new one from nothing. <br />
<br />
Christmas has already been coopted again by the [[god]] of [[capitalism]], and as such it should be embraced. Rather than being a selfish perversion of the teachings of Jesus, it can be a joyous celebration of all the wonderful stuff that [[capitalism]] is so good at producing. This is simply acknowledging the [[evolution]] in meaning that the Christmas holiday has already undergone. <br />
<br />
And this is the nature of [[rituals]]. They [[evolve]] and change their [[meaning]] with the tide of [[history]]. Old [[traditions]] become new by taking on new meaning imbued by [[future]] generations. Rarely are they simply made up out of whole cloth, and when they are it's more likely to become a [[cult]] than a religion.<br />
<br />
== Religion Videos ==<br />
<br />
There are a lot of videos on religion that could be chosen. Here are some of them.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9mFNgu6Cww||center|The Origins of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge071m9bGeY||center|The History of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYjqu09dudo||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Patrick McNamara|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqgPWx7wGSY||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Andrew Newberg|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GTWnU_IPdg||center|Mahavishnu Orchestra - Visions of the Emerald Beyond|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Religion&diff=3973Religion2024-03-11T12:20:17Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Essential Components of Religion */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Religion-Universalism-Pantheism-Coexist-Bahai-Peace.jpg|thumb|Can't we all just get along?]]<br />
Religion is belief in [[god]] in practice. Those that share a common [[belief system]] will express those beliefs in their [[traditions]], [[rituals]] and worship practices.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately no such [[traditions]] exist for those with [[secular]] orientation. But since [[tradition]] and [[ritual]] are integral to [[culture]], it is necessary for [[metaculture]] to develop [[traditions]] and [[rituals]] that can reinforce modern values like [[freedom]], [[reason]], [[science]], [[equality]], etc. <br />
<br />
In order to remedy this situation, the first step is to enumerate all of the functions that religion serves in our [[society]] and personal [[psychology]], in order that we can find [[secular]] analogs for each that can perform the same function, or improve upon it. <br />
<br />
== Essential Components of Religion ==<br />
<br />
A fully fledged religion needs to have<br />
<br />
* A [[god]]<br />
* A [[creation]] story<br />
* An [[apocalypse]] story<br />
* Cultural [[history]]<br />
* A system of [[ethics]]<br />
* Enforcement of [[taboos]]<br />
* [[Rituals]] to celebrate [[life]]'s milestones like [[birth]], [[coming of age]], [[marriage]] and [[death]]<br />
* A [[metanarrative]] that provides [[meaning]], context, and easy transmission of a [[culture]]'s most critical beliefs<br />
* Enough followers to not be considered a ''cult''<br />
<br />
metaculture should provide all of these things in order to fully serve the social and [[God Concept|psychological functions of religion]] without contradicting the [[rational]], [[materialistic]] view of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
== metaculture's Core Theology ==<br />
<br />
Details on the key theological beliefs and assumptions behind [[metaculture]] are listed here:<br />
<br />
* [[God|Definition of god]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalism]]<br />
* [[Fractal|The fractal geometry of god]]<br />
* [[God Concept|The god concept]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Morality and Ethics]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Faith|Faith and Certainty]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|The Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Apocalypse Prevention]]<br />
<br />
== Evolution of Religion ==<br />
<br />
Throughout [[history]], the [[traditions]] of one [[culture]] have been coopted and repurposed by the next. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia Saturnalia] becomes Christmas once the Roman Empire becomes a Christian state. This makes sense from a [[psychological]] perspective since it is much easier to redirect an existing [[habit]] than to form a new one from nothing. <br />
<br />
Christmas has already been coopted again by the [[god]] of [[capitalism]], and as such it should be embraced. Rather than being a selfish perversion of the teachings of Jesus, it can be a joyous celebration of all the wonderful stuff that [[capitalism]] is so good at producing. This is simply acknowledging the [[evolution]] in meaning that the Christmas holiday has already undergone. <br />
<br />
And this is the nature of [[rituals]]. They [[evolve]] and change their [[meaning]] with the tide of [[history]]. Old [[traditions]] become new by taking on new meaning imbued by [[future]] generations. Rarely are they simply made up out of whole cloth, and when they are it's more likely to become a [[cult]] than a religion.<br />
<br />
== Religion Videos ==<br />
<br />
There are a lot of videos on religion that could be chosen. Here are some of them.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9mFNgu6Cww||center|The Origins of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge071m9bGeY||center|The History of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYjqu09dudo||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Patrick McNamara|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqgPWx7wGSY||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Andrew Newberg|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GTWnU_IPdg||center|Mahavishnu Orchestra - Visions of the Emerald Beyond|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Religion&diff=3972Religion2024-03-11T12:19:23Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Religion-Universalism-Pantheism-Coexist-Bahai-Peace.jpg|thumb|Can't we all just get along?]]<br />
Religion is belief in [[god]] in practice. Those that share a common [[belief system]] will express those beliefs in their [[traditions]], [[rituals]] and worship practices.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately no such [[traditions]] exist for those with [[secular]] orientation. But since [[tradition]] and [[ritual]] are integral to [[culture]], it is necessary for [[metaculture]] to develop [[traditions]] and [[rituals]] that can reinforce modern values like [[freedom]], [[reason]], [[science]], [[equality]], etc. <br />
<br />
In order to remedy this situation, the first step is to enumerate all of the functions that religion serves in our [[society]] and personal [[psychology]], in order that we can find [[secular]] analogs for each that can perform the same function, or improve upon it. <br />
<br />
== Essential Components of Religion ==<br />
<br />
A fully fledged religion needs to have<br />
<br />
* A [[god]]<br />
* A [[creation]] story<br />
* An [[apocalypse]] story<br />
* Cultural [[history]]<br />
* A system of [[ethics]]<br />
* Enforcement of [[taboos]]<br />
* [[Rituals]] to celebrate [[life]]'s milestones like [[birth]], [[coming of age]], [[marriage]] and [[death]]<br />
* A narrative that provides [[meaning]], context, and easy transmission of a [[culture]]'s most critical beliefs<br />
* Enough followers to not be considered a ''cult''<br />
<br />
metaculture should provide all of these things in order to fully serve the social and [[God Concept|psychological functions of religion]] without contradicting the [[rational]], [[materialistic]] view of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
== metaculture's Core Theology ==<br />
<br />
Details on the key theological beliefs and assumptions behind [[metaculture]] are listed here:<br />
<br />
* [[God|Definition of god]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalism]]<br />
* [[Fractal|The fractal geometry of god]]<br />
* [[God Concept|The god concept]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Morality and Ethics]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Faith|Faith and Certainty]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|The Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Apocalypse Prevention]]<br />
<br />
== Evolution of Religion ==<br />
<br />
Throughout [[history]], the [[traditions]] of one [[culture]] have been coopted and repurposed by the next. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia Saturnalia] becomes Christmas once the Roman Empire becomes a Christian state. This makes sense from a [[psychological]] perspective since it is much easier to redirect an existing [[habit]] than to form a new one from nothing. <br />
<br />
Christmas has already been coopted again by the [[god]] of [[capitalism]], and as such it should be embraced. Rather than being a selfish perversion of the teachings of Jesus, it can be a joyous celebration of all the wonderful stuff that [[capitalism]] is so good at producing. This is simply acknowledging the [[evolution]] in meaning that the Christmas holiday has already undergone. <br />
<br />
And this is the nature of [[rituals]]. They [[evolve]] and change their [[meaning]] with the tide of [[history]]. Old [[traditions]] become new by taking on new meaning imbued by [[future]] generations. Rarely are they simply made up out of whole cloth, and when they are it's more likely to become a [[cult]] than a religion.<br />
<br />
== Religion Videos ==<br />
<br />
There are a lot of videos on religion that could be chosen. Here are some of them.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9mFNgu6Cww||center|The Origins of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge071m9bGeY||center|The History of Religion|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYjqu09dudo||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Patrick McNamara|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqgPWx7wGSY||center|The Neuroscience of Spiritual Experiences - Andrew Newberg|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GTWnU_IPdg||center|Mahavishnu Orchestra - Visions of the Emerald Beyond|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Science&diff=3971Science2024-03-11T12:05:31Z<p>Fractalguy: /* More Than Just a Social Construct */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Science-reason-scientific-method-peer-review.jpg|thumb|Person contemplating science stuff]]<br />
<br />
== Science is Method ==<br />
<br />
Science refers to the application of the scientific method over time in order to create continuous improvements in our understanding of the [[universe]].<br />
<br />
It does not refer to any specific theory or contemporary understanding of how things work. Any of these theories could be invalidated by future research.<br />
<br />
A common saying in 2023 is ''Trust the Science''. Those that understand science know that this means to [[trust]] the scientific method and the peer review process to validate true claims and invalidate false ones over time, rather than trusting in any particular scientists, [[institutions]], or theories. <br />
<br />
== Standards for Best Practices ==<br />
<br />
Ultimately the goal of society should be to adopt the [[best practices]] for maximizing [[happiness]] throughout all aspects of the [[government]], [[economy]], and [[culture]], as revealed through scientific research. <br />
<br />
This should include standards for when to update those [[best practices]] that avoid abrupt and confusing changes to what science ''recommends'' based on popular research. One of the things that has significantly eroded confidence in science is the [[Information overload|constant stream]] of seemingly contradictory health studies that get outsized media attention. An authoritative recommended health regimen from a [[trusted]] [[institution]] that only changes when significant and overwhelming new evidence warrants it would make it much easier for people to ignore all the noise generated by [[sensationalist]] scientific reporting, and the many [[grifters]] that profit off the confusion.<br />
<br />
Since most people don't have the time or scientific [[education]] required to determine the validity of scientific theories, restoring [[trust]] in [[institutions]] will be a [[necessary prerequisite]] to the universal adoption of [[evidence-based best practices]].<br />
<br />
== More Than Just a Social Construct ==<br />
Postmodern critics of science claim that science is just another [[Belief System|belief system]] akin to any other [[religion]] or [[ideology]]. While scientists are humans, and their [[psychology]] and [[culture]] certainly influence their chosen fields and proposed hypotheses, the ''system'' of science ensures that our models of the [[universe]] lead to increasingly accurate predictions of its behavior. These predictions are ''useful'' in a way that that prophecy and other predictive mechanisms cannot, because they result in [[technology]].<br />
<br />
A common criticism of anti-[[capitalists]] on [[social media]] is that they are hypocrites because they are using one of the most useful and amazing products of [[capitalism]], the smartphone, in order to make that criticism. However, this criticism is invalid because we could easily conceive of how such a device could be manufactured under an alternative [[economic]] structure. It may have taken longer for the smartphone to be developed under [[communism]], but there is nothing inherent in the [[economic]] systems that would prevent it from happening eventually.<br />
<br />
The same cannot be said of science. If you use a smartphone to say that science is no better than any other [[Belief System|belief system]], you are a hypocrite without exception. The smartphone is definitive proof that science leads to a more accurate picture of reality than other systems of knowledge or [[belief]]. Every single component is the result of centuries of theory and experimentation that led to the practical engineering knowledge that enabled its invention. Some of these discoveries were made under feudalism, some under [[communism]], some by government funded research in [[Democracy|democracies]], and others through privately funded [[capitalist]] R&D. The [[cultural]] and [[historical]] contexts in which they were made vary just as much. But regardless of the [[culture]] or [[economic]] system that produced them, the scientific system was in use throughout.<br />
<br />
No other [[Belief System|belief system]] has produced [[technology]]. Although there are many other arguments that can be made against the postmodern notion of science as a social construct, this is sufficient to falsify the theory.<br />
<br />
== Applied Science ==<br />
<br />
[[Special:WhatLinksHere/Science|All references to Science in the metaculture wiki]]<br />
<br />
== The Sounds (and video) of Science ==<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34GHBVTnKIQ||center|The Scientific Method: How scientists solve problems|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj9iNphbY88||center|Science in Action: How Science Works|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYPapE-3FRw||center|Feynman on Scientific Method|frame}}<br />
<br><br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y90N5XsasN0||center|Beastie Boys - The Sounds of Science|frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Scientific_method&diff=3970Scientific method2024-03-11T12:01:23Z<p>Fractalguy: Redirected page to Science</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Science]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Metanarrative&diff=3969Metanarrative2024-03-11T12:01:11Z<p>Fractalguy: </p>
<hr />
<div><blockquote>[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative Metanarrative] or grand narrative or mater narrative is a term developed by Jean-François Lyotard to mean a theory that tries to give a totalizing, comprehensive account to various [[historical]] events, experiences, and [[social]], [[cultural]] phenomena based upon the appeal to [[universal]] truth or [[Utilitarian|universal values]].[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative]</blockquote>[[metaculture]] is a new kind of metanarrative, different from [[religions]] and [[Ideology|ideologies]] of the past, because it has [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its only [[dogma]]. This means that when [[future]] evidence reveals many parts of this [[wiki]] to be incomplete or incorrect, they can simply be edited rather than discredited.<br />
<br />
The metanarrative serves and important [[psychological]] function, detailed in the [[God Concept|god concept]]. <br />
<br />
While most metanarratives lead to a reduction in [[critical thinking]] and acceptance of [[misinformation]], a metanarrative built solely around the [[scientific method]] and [[evidence-based best practices]] is not something that has been considered before. <br />
<br />
It is the metanarrative of the destruction of metanarrative. The [[Dogma|dogma of no dogma]]. It provides the ability to structure and make sense of the ever-changing world in which we're living, so it doesn't make you give in and cry.</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Wiki&diff=3968Wiki2024-03-11T11:52:06Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Self-Creating, Evolving and Eternal */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|Supporting factual information and open source platform provided by [https://wikipedia.org Wikipedia]. Please give ol' Jimmy some [[money]] to show your appreciation!]]<br />
How to you summarize the totality of [[scientific]], [[philosophical]], [[psychological]], and [[spiritual]] knowledge into a single work that can fully convey the gist of the nature of existence to anyone who gives it a thorough reading?<br />
<br />
The wiki format provides a wide range of benefits for a project with this goal in mind.<br />
<br />
If [https://wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia] represents all of human knowledge, the [[metaculture]] wiki represents the story that it tells, and a way for our [[minds]] to comprehend it and communicate it to others in a singular, packaged work, as has been the [[tradition]] among humans since we [[Evolution|evolved]] [[Society|societies]].<br />
<br />
== Self-Creating, Evolving and Eternal ==<br />
<br />
The first advantage of the wiki format is the ability to collaborate. Since [[metaculture]] is an emergent system of thought, there are many people with their own knowledge and [[perspective]] about each subject. The wiki format allows them all to contribute if they have something to add.<br />
<br />
People also get things wrong, and scientific advancement enhances and replaces old ideas as our knowledge about them expands. Wiki will allow anyone to point out and correct factual errors, or update pages on any subject that has become obsolete. A static writing would forever enshrine those obsolete ideas until it reads like a 50 year old science textbook. The wiki format allows for [[self-correction]] of [[doctrine]], which is necessary to avoid [[dogma]].<blockquote>''"It's better to be edited than discredited"''</blockquote>The wiki format will allow those additions and revisions to continue in perpetuity. If the goal of [[metaculture]] is to create a system of thought that can supplant the ones that have stood for the last 2000 years, it needs to allow for all the changes that will come in the next 2000 years. This cannot be accomplished with a static writing format. We can barely imagine what the next 100 years of scientific advancement will bring, much less the next 1000.<br />
<br />
== It Isn't Done Yet ==<br />
[[File:Foundation-frame-unfinished-philosophy-eternal-self-correcting.jpg|thumb|The foundation has been laid and the framework built. Subject matter experts are needed to finish the house using [[Evidence-Based Best Practices|best practices]].]]<br />
When this wiki was launched it was populated with longer articles describing the core philosophical tenets, along with shorter pages that addressed more specific topics. Videos provide high-quality [[educational]] background on each topic. The overall framework of the [[metaculture]] [[belief system]] is laid out, but there are many details that still need to be filled in, particularly in the expansive [[best practices]] section that attempts to describe the practical application of these principles in all areas of [[life]].<br />
<br />
This should be a collaborative effort, with like-minded people sharing their expertise on each subject until all of the essentials are covered. Each page should have context for how that topic relates to the [[holistic]] vision of the [[universe]], and [[educational]] materials for kids, teens, and adults. The text should distill each concept into its core [[meme]], while providing access to the world of evidence that led to this conclusion through links. They should be brief and to the point, but still cover all of the most essential concepts. <br />
<br />
And it should focus on why each of these things is [[God concept|wonderful]] and should fill us with [[joy]]!<br />
<br />
By design, will never be "finished", only constantly improved. But at first launch it is definitely more of a foundation and a frame than a fully constructed house.<br />
<br />
== But Don't Overdo It ==<br />
<br />
There is an infinite amount of [[information]] that could be included in this wiki. But if it becomes so big that it is impossible to get through it all, it will no longer serve its purpose. It should be possible to consume it like an interactive book that can ultimately be "finished".<br />
<br />
[[Information overload]] must be avoided. Only the key pieces of information that are necessary to fill in the most common [[knowledge gaps]] and relate each topic to the [[big picture]] should be provided. Unlimited references are encouraged, but the main content should be limited to a few paragraphs and videos on each subject.<br />
<br />
== Non-Linear Reading Format ==<br />
<br />
The non-linear reading format wiki provides has two key advantages. Human thought itself is non-linear, constantly veering off on tangents as the conceptual associations we make focus our attention on new ideas. Each person comes to it with their own knowledge and ignorance on each subject. If an article mentions [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs Maslow's hierarchy of needs] for instance, you may already know all about this subject or you may have never heard of it. The wiki format allows you to follow that link and learn more about it if necessary, or continue reading if you are already familiar with the subject.<br />
<br />
This allows each article to be written much more concisely than it could be in a linear format. In a book it is necessary to dedicate time, energy and space to any concept that the reader is likely to be unfamiliar with. Any avid reader of popular science and philosophy is familiar with the tedium of having the same common concepts explained again and again in every book they read because of the possibility that another reader may be learning about the subject for the first time. The wiki format replaces these redundant explanations with a single link that the reader can follow if needed.<br />
<br />
Follow the [[webinar series]] for a breakdown of topics into logical chunks, with a presentation and discussion of each.<br />
<br />
== If You Don't Agree, Hover the Links ==<br />
<br />
In order to accommodate the wiki format, some terms are used based on specific definitions or usages that are described on its page. These are often not the most common usage, such as the interchangeability of [[god]] and [[universe]] in the [[pantheistic]] view. It is important to take these definitions into account when considering any statement made on this wiki. While you may not agree with the usage, that is a separate debate. The arguments should be considered using the intended definitions of words that have all been spelled out in detail, rather than the ones based on your pre-existing assumptions.<br />
<br />
You can quickly hover over each link and get a preview of the first paragraph and a page thumbnail to make sure it doesn't immediately conflict with your assumptions. The thumbnails also help you recognize alias links that you have already seen. This is easier when reading in a desktop browser since phones don't have a mouse that can hover over a link but there should be an equivalent gesture.<br />
<br />
== Maintaining Cultural Relevance ==<br />
<br />
While the initial wiki was populated with the writings of a single author, the ideas should be fully separated from their authorship. First person perspectives and personal anecdotes are not used, and references to specific current events and popular culture can be updated to stay current. If a [[subjective]] point cannot be made without the first person, the term "this author" will be used in place of "I" to emphasize the anonymous and collaborative goal of this project.<br />
<br />
References to [[religions]], [[scripture]], [[politics]] and [[culture]] should be generalized and made as [[universal]] as possible to allow people from any [[time]], place or background to approach the subject matter equally.<br />
<br />
Eventually, the wiki platform will also allow for translations into multiple languages and recontextualization of the ideas for individual [[cultures]]. The language translation feature can even be used to [[wikipedia:Code-switching|code switch]] between different generations and [[cultural]] sub-groups, replacing the [[musical]] references, memes, pup culture references, and [[religious]] [[allegories]] with those specific to a particular group.<br />
<br />
== Languages and Education Levels ==<br />
<br />
The wiki will also allow for multiple language translations, as well as multiple education level translations. The initial wiki will be written on an academic reading level and assume the reader is familiar with of the fundamentals of [[science]], [[philosophy]], [[theology]], and [[fractals]]. But each page should eventually offer simplified versions that explain concepts using [[allegory]] and examples, and provide additional reference materials to help those who are unfamiliar with with the topics being discussed.<br />
<br />
Video based tutorials are also provided that provide different levels of simplicity and depth in their explanations. The best publicly available video content on each subject is embedded on each page to help provide rich and entertaining background [[information]].<br />
<br />
In its final form, multiple versions of each page can be published with beginner (primary school), intermediate (high school), and advanced (academic) levels of detail, allowing you to switch between versions like you would a language translation.<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
<br />
The wiki will allow extensive linking to source material and research that backs up any assertions or conclusions made. The initial framework will mostly describe the [[perspective]] and methodology that [[metaculture]] will use to identify [[religious]], [[psychological]], [[political]], and [[economic]] [[best-practices]] rather than drawing conclusions on what they currently are. This task is better left to subject matter experts who can provide this detail and cite the research to back it up. Hence, extensive links to corresponding pages on [https://wikipedia.org Wikipedia.org] will be used to provide background information since these are written and maintained by experts already, and [[metaculture]] simply provides organization and [[perspective]] on these facts, not primary research or summarization thereof.<br />
<br />
== Music and Video ==<br />
<br />
Embedded educational videos related to each subject will be provided where available. These may not always approach the subject matter from the exact [[perspective]] being presented in the text, but when they aren't they are complementary or provide good background information.<br />
<br />
Some are taken from [[podcasts]] or YouTube channels that have a lot of other content, and it should go without saying that linking to one specific video is not an endorsement of all content on that channel.<br />
<br />
Basic introductory videos designed for children and students are included, as well as more advanced discussions of each topic, or even full academic lectures. The selection should be curated to ensure the best content that is freely available on each subject should be provided, and anything that will cause your [[algorithm]] to send you down a right wing rabbit hole will be avoided.<br />
<br />
All pages will also contain a [[music]] video for a song that evokes that subject. These can be used as a playlist to provide [[musical]] accompaniment as you read.<br />
<br />
[https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Extension:EmbedVideo Instructions for embedding videos]<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5s28AiGkD8||center||frame}}<br />
<br />
== Version Control ==<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|200x200px|Open source scripture = Giture]]<br />
Finally, the wiki will track the version history of each article and provide the ability for authors to discuss changes, and for those discussions to be visible to future generations. <br />
<br />
It's like [[scripture]] with version control. G''iture'' if you will pardon the pun.<br />
<br />
{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7yXx3YbcNI||center||frame}}</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Metanarrative&diff=3967Metanarrative2024-03-11T11:50:26Z<p>Fractalguy: Created page with "<blockquote>[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative Metanarrative] or grand narrative or mater narrative is a term developed by Jean-François Lyotard to mean a theory that tries to give a totalizing, comprehensive account to various historical events, experiences, and social, cultural phenomena based upon the appeal to universal truth or universal values.[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative]</blockqu..."</p>
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<div><blockquote>[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative Metanarrative] or grand narrative or mater narrative is a term developed by Jean-François Lyotard to mean a theory that tries to give a totalizing, comprehensive account to various [[historical]] events, experiences, and [[social]], [[cultural]] phenomena based upon the appeal to [[universal]] truth or [[Utilitarian|universal values]].[https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Metanarrative]</blockquote>[[metaculture]] is a new kind of metanarrative, different from [[religions]] and [[Ideology|ideologies]] of the past, because it has [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its only [[dogma]]. This means that when [[future]] evidence reveals many parts of this [[wiki]] to be incomplete or incorrect, they can simply be edited rather than discredited.</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3966Main Page2024-03-11T11:42:58Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Who Are You? */</p>
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<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[Belief System|mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
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== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie a modern understanding of Scientific Realism that accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the psychological and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
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<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a new [[metanarrative]], allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
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For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
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<div>[[File:Webinar-metaculture-belief-system-book-club-series-class-questions-answers-fractal.jpg|thumb|Sit back, relax, and have your [[mind]] blown]]<br />
The [[metaculture]] Webinar Series divides the complete [[philosophy]] into a series of presentations and discussions by category. <br />
=== Wiki Book Club ===<br />
This allows the [[wiki]] to be tackled in a "[[Reading List|Book Club]]" style, reading a manageable section on a single topic and then meeting to discuss. Should your book club wish to read the [[metaculture]] [[wiki]] without the webinars, this outline would serve as an appropriate roadmap.<br />
<br />
Before each session you should read all of the pages in the list, and watch the associated videos. For topics that you are very familiar with you may choose to skip some of the videos, especially the longer ones. The 1.25x speed setting can help as well. The webinars will assume you have read all the pages and are familiar with the concepts presented in the videos.<br />
<br />
=== Focus on Connections ===<br />
Due to the broad range of topics being covered, discussion will focus on the core [[Philosophy|philosophical]] tenets and unique [[Perspective|perspectives]] of the [[Belief System|belief system]], the [[rhetorical]] and [[persuasive]] advantages of this approach, and how each subject relates to the [[holistic]] view of the [[universe]] presented by [[metaculture]]. The goal is to [[bridge the gap]] between common understandings of these subjects and the best available evidence. So read the Wikipedia links if you don't yet have the common understanding!<br />
<br />
=== Enlightenment or Your Money Back! ===<br />
At the end of this free 10-part webinar series, you are guaranteed to achieve a new sense of [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] that you never had before. If the webinar series fails to achieve this goal, you will be issued a full refund and sincere apology.<br />
<br />
=== metaculture Mondays Start March 11, 2024 @ 8:30PM Eastern ===<br />
Sign up here to receive the webinar registration links for this and future webinars. metaculture Mondays repeats every 2 weeks (3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, 6/3, 6/17, 7/1, 7/15).<br />
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== 1 Introduction ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Fractals, fractals, fractals]]<br />
Start with an introduction to the [[metaculture]] [[Belief System|belief system]], explaining the primary goals, expected benefits, and reasons behind the undertaking.<br />
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* [[Main Page|metaculture]]<br />
* [[Belief System]]<br />
* [[Culturally neutral|Culturally Neutral]]<br />
* [[In-group|Universal In-Group]]<br />
* [[Holistic]] [[Perspective]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|Persuasive Power]]<br />
* [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]]<br />
* [[Enlightenment]] and the [[Meaning of Life]]<br />
* [[Necessary Prerequisite|Necessary Prerequisites]]<br />
* [[Wiki|Why a wiki?]]<br />
* [[Wiki|How to wiki]]<br />
<br />
== 2 Metaphysics and Theology ==<br />
[[File:Freedom-of-religion-jesus-moses-buddha-krishna-in-a-convertible-with-the-top-down.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Freedom of Religion]]<br />
Since one of the primary goals is the resolution of [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] caused by [[science]] and [[religion]], the metaphysical and [[theological]] assumptions are a [[logical]] place to start.<br />
<br />
* [[Philosophy]]<br />
* [[Religion]]<br />
* [[Reality]] and the [[Laws of physics|Laws of Physics]]<br />
* [[Mathematics and Logic|Logic]] and [[Inevitability]]<br />
* [[God]]<br />
* [[Pantheism]]<br />
* [[Universalist]]<br />
* [[Universe]]<br />
* [[Atheism]], [[Literalism]], and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Fractal Geometry of God]]<br />
* [[Faith]], [[Life choices|Life Choices]], and [[The Gambler]]<br />
<br />
== 3 Empirical Ethics ==<br />
[[File:Ethics-Morality-Grid.png|thumb|200x200px|Ethics]]<br />
The goal of our [[ethics]] and what humans consider "good" is encoded in our [[brains]] by [[evolution]]. Therefore, the pursuit of [[happiness and well-being]] is the objective goal of our actions.<br />
<br />
The way we interpret these instincts becomes the [[generating equation]] that creates the pattern of our [[life choices]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* [[Happiness and well-being]]<br />
* [[Theoretical people|Theoretical People]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Abortion]], [[Euthanasia]] and the [[Death penalty]]<br />
* [[Moderation]]<br />
* [[These things are bad, mkay?]]<br />
<br />
== 4 Gödel, Feedback Loops and Fractals ==<br />
[[File:Escher-drawing-hands.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Self-referential]]<br />
When [[self-reference]] is introduced into any [[mathematical]] system, strange (loop) things start to happen.<br />
<br />
* [[Gödel|Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems]]<br />
* [[Algorithm]]<br />
* [[Recursion]]<br />
* [[Feedback|Feedback Loops]]<br />
* [[Self-organization|Self-Organization]]<br />
* [[Generating equation|Generating Equation]]<br />
* [[Self-Similarity]]<br />
* [[Self-correction|Self-Correction]]<br />
<br />
== 5 Consciousness and the Mind/Body Relationship ==<br />
[[File:Neurophysiology-brain-components-organs-anatomy-structure.png|thumb|200x200px|Brainy]]<br />
A crash course in how the [[brain]] works, with a particular emphasis on the hard problem of [[consciousness]], the [[mind]]/[[Brains|brain]] relationship, and how understanding the activity of [[neural networks]] can help us understand our own behavior.<br />
<br />
* [[Brain]] and [[Neurophysiology]]<br />
* [[Neural network|Neural networks]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]] and [[Mind]]<br />
* [[Free will|Free Will]]<br />
* [[Subjective|Subjectivity]]<br />
* [[Psychedelics]]<br />
<br />
== 6 Brain and Behavior ==<br />
[[File:Purple-Brain-Image.jpg|thumb|217x217px|More brainy]]<br />
Exploring the other areas related to [[psychology]], with a particular emphasis on the things that determine our [[life choices]] and behaviors.<br />
* [[Self-aware|Self-Awareness]]<br />
* [[Cognitive Dissonance]]<br />
* [[Salience|Motivational Salience]]<br />
* [[Addiction]]<br />
* [[Short Term Rewards and Long Term Consequences|Delayed Gratification and Temptation]]<br />
* [[Lying]]/[[Cheating]]<br />
* [[Emotions]]<br />
* [[Placebo effect|The Placebo Effect]]<br />
<br />
== 7 Creation, Evolution, and Metaphor Mapping ==<br />
[[File:Sierpinski-Trinity-Holy-Fractal-Spirit.png|thumb|200x200px|Fractal Trinity]]<br />
Exploring how the application of the [[fractal]] [[metaphor]] and principles of [[self-organization]] can help people understand the nature of [[complex systems]] like [[evolution]], as well as illustrating the natural analogs for [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[Allegory|allegories]].<br />
<br />
* [[Literalism]] and [[Allegory]]<br />
* [[Creation Story]]<br />
* [[Evolution]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Heaven and Hell]]<br />
* [[Sierpinski Trinity]]<br />
<br />
== 8 Flavors of Modern B.S. ==<br />
[[File:Ponzi-scheme-mlm-pyramid-scam-grift.png|thumb|225x225px|Spot the grift]]<br />
[[Reason]] and [[critical thinking]] are vital skills in late stage [[capitalism]], where you can be [[Grift|grifted]] by anyone in the world at any time, and many of the schemes are [[legal]]. Developing new [[social norms]] will be necessary to counter these trends.<br />
<br />
* [[Misinformation]], [[Outrage]], [[Platforms]] and [[Promotion]]<br />
* [[Grift]]<br />
* [[Pseudoscience]]<br />
* [[Quantum woo|Quantum Woo]]<br />
* [[Futurology]], [[Technology]], and [[Crypto-bros]]<br />
* The [[Manosphere]]<br />
* [[Jesus Christ and Jordan Peterson]]<br />
* [[Critical thinking|Critical Thinking]]<br />
* [[Social norms|Social Norms]] and [[Taboo|Taboos]]<br />
<br />
== 9 Politics, Government and Economics ==<br />
[[File:Democracy-voting-electoral-systems-democratic-election-representative-government.jpg|thumb|200x200px|You should vote]]<br />
[[Evidence-based best practices]] for creating a [[society]] that is effective at maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] for its citizens and fulfilling the [[utilitarian]] ethos.<br />
<br />
* Not left and right: [[Progressive]], [[Libertarian]], and [[Authoritarianism|Authoritarian]]<br />
* [[Fascism]] and [[Communism]]<br />
* [[Democracy]]<br />
* [[Freedom|Defining and Defending Freedom]]<br />
* [[Freedom of Speech]]<br />
* [[Religious Freedom]]<br />
* [[Balance of power|Balance of Power]]<br />
* [[Separation of Church and State]]<br />
* [[Public Education]]<br />
* [[Social Safety Net]]<br />
* [[Universal Health Care]]<br />
* [[Justice|Equal Justice for all citizens]]<br />
* Mixed [[Economy]] with the best elements of [[Socialism]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
<br />
== 10 Best Practices For Life ==<br />
[[File:Love-heart-marriage-partnership-romance.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Love is a best practice]]<br />
The rest of the webinar series will focus on the application of [[science]] and evidence to maximizing [[happiness and well-being]] in [[society]] to every aspect of [[future]] [[culture]]. When the [[best practices]] section has been fully developed, each of these bullets could become its own session. <br />
<br />
For the initial webinar, it will focus on the need to develop an authoritative guide for making effective [[life choices]] that is continually updated based on the best available evidence, so people don't have to figure everything out for themselves amidst a sea of [[misinformation]].<br />
<br />
* [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]]<br />
* [[Life]] and [[Life choices|Life Choices]]<br />
* [[Mental Health]]<br />
* [[Spirituality]]<br />
* [[Relationships]]<br />
* [[Community]]<br />
* [[Work]]<br />
* [[Finance]]<br />
* [[Music]]<br />
* [[Art]]<br />
* [[Food]]<br />
* [[Love]]<br />
* [[Sex]]<br />
* [[Children]]<br />
* [[Longevity]]<br />
* [[Death]]<br />
* [[Afterlife]]</div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3964Main Page2024-03-11T00:52:40Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Philosophical Goals */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[Belief System|mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
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<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie a modern understanding of Scientific Realism that accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the psychological and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
<br />
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<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a single narrative structure, allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
<br />
For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe></div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3963Main Page2024-03-11T00:51:26Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Core Tenets */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
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<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie a modern understanding of Scientific Realism that accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the psychological and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a single narrative structure, allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
<br />
For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe></div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3962Main Page2024-03-11T00:50:43Z<p>Fractalguy: /* Core Tenets */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie the modern understanding of Scientific Realism that also accounts for the biases, [[power]] structures, paradigms, and other [[social]] factors highlighted by [[wikipedia:The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions|Kuhn]] and [[wikipedia:Jacques_Derrida|Derrida]].<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
<br />
metaculture should convey all of the psychological and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
<br />
The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
<br />
You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
<br />
* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
<br />
* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
<br />
* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
<br />
The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
<br />
Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
<br />
The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
<br />
Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
<br />
Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
<br />
== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a single narrative structure, allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
<br />
As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
<br />
For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe></div>Fractalguyhttps://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=3961Main Page2024-03-10T14:13:53Z<p>Fractalguy: /* A Meta-Belief System */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Mandelbrot-Fractal-Puzzle.jpg|thumb|250x250px|[[Fractal Geometry of God|The Fractal Geometry of the Universe]]]]<br />
<big>Welcome to the metaculture [[wiki]]--the shortest path to scientific [[enlightenment]] or your [[money]] back!</big><br />
<br />
<big>Think of a basic science education as giving you the pieces to the puzzle of the [[universe]]. All of the facts are there, but nobody tells you how to put them together to create a [[belief system]] that provides [[meaning]].</big> <br />
<br />
<big>''metaculture'' is the picture on the box, and it is a [[fractal]].</big><br />
== The Goal ==<br />
<br />
metaculture attempts to describe the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence emergent properties] of a [[universal]] [[belief system]] based on <br />
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empirical_evidence empirical knowledge] of our [[universe]], our [[minds]] and humanity's shared [[culture]].<br />
<br />
=== Philosophical Goals ===<br />
When fully developed, metaculture should provide:<br />
<br />
* A [[mental framework]] for rational comprehension of how the [[universe]] works.<br />
* A [[culturally neutral]] [[moral]] philosophy, updated for the [[future]].<br />
* An [[evidence-based]] socioeconomic and political philosophy.<br />
* A viable path towards the creation of a [[In-group|universal in-group]].<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[philosophical]] goals should be adopted.<br />
=== Social Goals ===<br />
By providing an easy way for anyone to gain all of the the [[Necessary Prerequisite|prerequisite knowledge]] needed to come to this understanding, the following goals for [[society]] should be advanced:<br />
<br />
* Promote the principles of [[science]], [[reason]], and [[critical thinking]].<br />
* Use of [[Evidence-Based Best Practices]] as the basis for [[political]] and [[Life choices|personal decision making]].<br />
* Change primary [[meterstick]] for success from [[money]]/GDP to [[utilitarian]] [[happiness]]/GNH.<br />
* Reduction in [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] due to conflicting interpretations of [[science]] and [[religion]].<br />
* Update our [[Culture|culture's]] [[ethics]] and [[social norms]] to deal with [[capitalism]] and [[future]] [[technology]].<br />
* Increase the [[incentives]] for [[economic]] and social [[justice]] and restore the [[balance of power]].<br />
* Expansion of [[political]], personal, [[religious]], and [[economic]] [[freedom]].<br />
* Oppose [[pseudoscience]] and the [[Grift|grift economy]] and undermine it with awareness.<br />
* Increase the [[trust]] in [[institutions]] that is required for [[democracy]] to function.<br />
* Enable the creation of [[secular institutions]] that serve all of the [[cultural]] functions that [[religious]] ones do.<br />
* Better preserve [[nature]] and the [[environment]], avert [[climate change]] and other [[Apocalypse Prevention|apocalypse]] scenarios.<br />
* World peace, [[In-group|unity]], and and end to all [[war]] (if there's [[time]]).<br />
<br />
Any improvement to the [[ideas]], [[Perspective|perspectives]], or [[rhetoric]] that better advances these [[social]] goals should be adopted.<br />
<br />
=== Open Source Philosophy ===<br />
[[File:Giture-open-source-scripture-with-version-control.png|thumb|250x250px|[[Scripture|Giture]]]]<br />
metaculture is a dynamic philosophy, growing and improving with humanity's ability to more accurately describe the [[universe]]. It collects into a single narrative structure what, to the best of our knowledge, [[science]] has to say about how our [[universe]] [[Creation Story|came to be]], [[Laws of physics|how it works]], how our [[minds]] work, and [[best-practices]] for [[Life|how to live our lives]] and construct our [[society]] to achieve constantly improving outcomes.<blockquote>''"Go ahead. Prove me wrong. I'll just hit the Edit button." --Wiki Contributor''</blockquote>It proposes [[Secular humanist|secular]] version of [[scripture]] that enables it to serve all of the same [[cultural]] and [[psychological]] functions of [[religion]] while avoiding the shortcomings of [[dogma]]. It does this by creating a dynamic, open source, living [[scripture]] of [[science]] using the [[wiki]] [[platform]]. ''Giture'', if you will pardon the programming pun.<br />
<br />
=== A New Metanarrative ===<br />
<br />
metaculture is not proposed as a replacement for any [[rational]], [[universalist]] [[Belief System|belief system]] you already hold that works for you. It is a new [[perspective]] on these common [[ideas]] that covers all of the [[philosophical]] bases from a [[holistic]] point of view, tries to appeal to a variety of modern [[cultural]] [[perspectives]], and offers new ways of [[Persuasion|presenting the ideas]] that helps [[Necessary Prerequisite|fill in the gaps]] of modern [[education]] that keep others from [[Persuasion|coming to the same understanding]]. <br />
<br />
For many, it's just the thing you already [[believe]], with more detail, and a [[Fractal Geometry of God|symbolic fractal theme]] that ties together all of the ideas into a [[God Concept|single, unifying concept]].It is a way to [[In-group|unite all of the different people of the world]] who believe the same thing in different ways.<blockquote>''"It's like reading a more articulate and detailed version of how I view reality" --Satisfied Reader''</blockquote>If you come from a [[Religion|theistic]] or [[atheistic]] perspective, metaculture offers a path to reconcile the [[Cognitive Dissonance|cognitive dissonance]] that conflicting [[scientific]] and [[spiritual]] modes of thought can cause. [[File:Science-religion-metaculture.png|center|thumb|600x600px|The Triangles are a [[Metaphor]]]]It should work side-by-side with any [[Religion|religious]] or [[Secular humanist|humanist]] [[tradition]] you practice, allowing greater understanding of [[science]], [[spirituality]], and other [[cultures]] without replacing your own. It's metaculture, not [[wikipedia:Cultural_homogenization|monoculture]].<br />
<br />
A thorough reading should serve as an inoculation against [[scriptural]] [[literalism]] and [[Authoritarianism|authoritarian]] [[Ideology|ideologies]], and a booster for [[critical thinking]], regardless of whether the proposed [[Belief System|belief system]] is adopted as a [[Holistic|whole]]. It offers [[something for everyone]].<br />
<br />
<iframe key="list" level="dfah-cmpzourl" path="ua/Optin?od=11287ecb802e9f&zx=128e6af96&tD=1ac119d1db5e79e7&sD=1ac119d1db5e7c74" frameborder="0" id="iframewin" width="100%" height="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
== Core Tenets ==<br />
[[File:World-Pantheist-Movement-Symbol.JPG|thumb|[[Fractal]] [[Pantheistic]] [[Universalism]]]]<br />
metaculture is a complete, unified [[philosophical]] and [[theological]] system that addresses all of the major questions of [[ethics]], [[wikipedia:Epistemology|epistemology]], [[wikipedia:Metaphysics|metaphysics]], [[aesthetics]], etc. that [[philosophers]], [[Science|scientists]], and [[religions]] have always dealt with. <br />
<br />
The goal is not to rewrite these works but to combine the best of them in a way that offers a simple, universally applicable [[belief system]] that is consistent with both [[science]] and [[scripture]] and can be understood regardless of one's education level or [[cultural]] background.<br />
<br />
The core tenets are:<br />
<br />
* [[Reality|Scientific Realism]]: that an objective [[reality]] exists and advances in science improve the accuracy of our understanding of that [[reality]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics metaphysical], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontology ontological] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology epistemological] assumptions of metaculture are the same as those that underlie modern Scientific Realism.<br />
<br />
* [[Utilitarian|Utilitarianism]]: that the success of our [[ethics]] can be measured and improved based on the impact it has on human [[emotions]]. Furthermore, the assumed goal of [[utilitarianism]] ([[happiness and well-being]]) can be derived empirically from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_psychology evolutionary psychology].<br />
<br />
* [[Aesthetics|Fractal Aesthetics]]: that our sense of [[beauty]] derives from our evolved mental representations of the [[universe]], and because the [[universe]] is inherently [[self-similar]], complex and symmetrical, we find [[beauty]] in that which exemplifies these things. The [[fractal]] is also the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_symbol symbolism] of metaculture.<br />
<br />
* [[Pantheism|Pantheistic]] [[Universalist|Universalism]]: that the [[God Concept|concept of god]] is common to all [[Religion|religions]] because it is an [[allegory]] for the [[universe]] we all [[Reality|exist in]], as well as a [[self-organizing]] [[God Concept|pattern in the brain]].<br />
<br />
* That any principle described herein, including these core tenets, is subject to future revision should empirical evidence contradict it. [[Dogma|The Dogma of No Dogma]].<br />
<br />
* Should another parallel effort better succeed in fulfilling the goals of metaculture, our resources should be dedicated to support the project with a greater chance of success.<br />
<br />
metaculture allows anyone to quickly gain a robust, consistent, accurate, and [[self-correcting]] understanding of how our [[universe]], [[brains]] and [[societies]] works. It uses [[science]] to provide direct and satisfactory answers to [[life]]'s biggest questions, without reliance on [[supernatural]] [[Scripture|stories]] or forcing you to figure it all out for yourself.<br />
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metaculture should convey all of the psychological and sociological benefits [[traditionally]] ascribed to [[religion]]. This include social cohesion, [[psychological]] support, personal [[meaning]], positive social change, a good [[creation]] story and [[psychologically]] satisfying answers to the ultimate question of [[life]], the [[universe]] and [[everything]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrases_from_The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy#The_Answer_to_the_Ultimate_Question_of_Life,_the_Universe,_and_Everything_is_42]<br />
<br />
== Table of Contents ==<br />
[[File:Mandelbrot_Fractal_Zoom.gif|thumb|right|[[Fractal Geometry of God|z = z^2 + c (repeat infinitely)]]]]<br />
<br />
Shortcuts to the answers to the big questions. Since this is a book in [[wiki]] format, you will need to follow the links to find most of the [[information]] it contains. These are just some starting points.<br />
<br />
It is designed to be read non-linearly but systematically, following links as you follow your interests, until you rarely see an unread link. Some pages will be visited multiple times, since they serve as a nexus for many related concepts.<br />
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The [[Webinar series|'''Webinar Series''']] breaks down the [[wiki]] by topic, and will include recorded presentations and Q&A sessions once they are available.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Reading List]]''' gives a selection of books that, if you fed them all to a large language model [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], would produce something similar to this [[wiki]].<br />
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You can also just go to a [[Special:Random|'''Random Page''']] and take it from there!<br />
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* What is [[god]]?<br />
* The [[fractal]] [[universe]]<br />
* [[The Gambler|Betting on reality]]<br />
* The role of [[religion]]<br />
* The scientific [[Creation Story]]<br />
* The scientific [[Afterlife]]<br />
* [[Consciousness]], [[Free Will]], and the [[Brain]]<br />
* [[Utilitarian]] [[Ethics]]<br />
* Maximizing [[Happiness]] is objectively the [[Meaning of Life|goal of Life]]<br />
* [[God Concept|Creating reflexive happiness]]<br />
* [[Quality of life versus quantity of life]]<br />
* [[Economics]] and [[Capitalism]]<br />
* [[Politics]] and [[Justice]]<br />
* [[Best-Practices]] for creating a [[culture]] of [[happiness]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|The Importance of Persuasion]]<br />
<br />
Complete Index of Pages:<br />
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* [[Special:MostLinkedPages|'''Most Linked Pages''']]<br />
* [https://www.metaculture.net/metawiki/index.php?title=Special:AllPages&hideredirects=1 All Pages Excluding Redirects]<br />
* [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]]<br />
<br />
[[File:The Dark Side of the Moon Cover.png|thumb|right|A simple prism]]<br />
<br />
Table of Contents, set to the lyrics of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(Pink_Floyd_song) Eclipse]:<br />
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* [[Materialism|All that you touch]]<br />
* [[Fractals|All that you see]]<br />
* [[Food|All that you taste]]<br />
* [[Consciousness|All you feel]].<br />
* [[Love|All that you love]]<br />
* [[Hate|All that you hate]]<br />
* [[Trust|All you distrust]]<br />
* [[Persuasion|All you save]].<br />
* [[Altruism|All that you give]]<br />
* [[Capitalism|All that you deal]]<br />
* [[Money|All that you buy]],<br />
* [[Grift|beg, borrow or steal]].<br />
* [[Creation Story|All you create]]<br />
* [[Death|All you destroy]]<br />
* [[Life choices|All that you do]]<br />
* [[Freedom of speech|All that you say]].<br />
* [[Nutrition|All that you eat]]<br />
* [[Population|everyone you meet]]<br />
* [[Justice|All that you slight]]<br />
* [[War|everyone you fight]].<br />
* [[Time|All that is now]]<br />
* [[Afterlife|All that is gone]]<br />
* [[Future|All that's to come]]<br />
* [[Everything|and everything under the sun]].<br />
<br />
Like [[Easter eggs]]? Find all of the tracks on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dark_Side_of_the_Moon Dark Side of the Moon] and collect your achievement!<br />
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<br />
== Why a Wiki? ==<br />
[[File:Wikipedia-logo-wikimedia-philosophy-wiki-theology-fractals.png|thumb|229x229px|[[wikipedia:Jimmy_Wales|God Bless Jimmy Whales]]]]<br />
The [[wiki]] format was chosen to allow ongoing updates based on [[best-practices]] from the latest widely accepted research, contributions from many people with different [[perspectives]] on the common goal, non-linear reading order, and direct links to detailed descriptions and research on any subject that the reader is unfamiliar with.<br />
<br />
There are a number of advantages to this publishing style, detailed on the [[wiki]] page.<br />
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The best way to read this wiki is to follow the links anytime you have a question or a curiosity. You will eventually get back to where you left off. Topics with multiple references may require multiple readings. Use the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_education Montessori] approach to self-directed learning.<br />
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Hovering the links with your mouse on desktop or using tough screen gestures will give you a preview of the first paragraph of each page and a thumbnail. This makes it much easier to stay on one page as you read and keep track of the ones you have already seen.<br />
<br />
== Why Bother? ==<br />
<br />
The main reason is that nobody else seems to have bothered. There are [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|a number of reasons why this is]], most of which boil down to the [[progressive]] and [[secular]] aversion to [[dogma]]. This means that the closest similar attempts are organizations like [[Universalist|Unitarian Universalists]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism Secular Humanists], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Assembly Sunday Assembly], all of which lack a comprehensive [[philosophy]] that can offer the kind of definitive answers that [[traditional]] [[religion]] always has. They lack the [[ideology]] and therefore the organizing power. metaculture provides a [[self-correcting]] [[belief system]] that avoids the pitfalls of [[dogma]] while retaining the [[inspiration]] and organizational zeal of a proper [[ideology]].<br />
<br />
There is also the fact that this author finds it fun, interesting, and cathartic, and would do this even if nobody would ever be able to read it. There is also this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTNGg0Tj5Aw uncontrollable urge] to do so. But hopefully you will read it and find it some combination of enlightening and entertaining!<br />
<br />
== Who is This For? ==<br />
<br />
This is for all of the people disillusioned with organized [[religion]], [[politics]], [[capitalism]], [[technology]], and all of the other [[institutions]] of modernity that appear to be arrayed in a confederacy against our [[happiness]] and ability to thrive as natural humans.<br />
<br />
There are others that peddle [[belief systems]] catering to the disaffected and offer [[conspiracy theories]] in place of analysis, and [[Grift|scams]] instead of solutions. [[Spiritual]] [[grifters]] use [[quantum woo]] to sell supplements and seminars to people whose symptoms are a condition of modern [[life]], and can never be cured without doing the work of organizing for social change that [[conspiracy theories]] distract them from.<br />
<br />
It is for all the young men who are being led by the pied pipers of the [[manosphere]] towards the right-wing faux-[[philosophy]] of [[Jordan Peterson]]. If you are searching for [[meaning]] and a [[belief system]] that will help you become a better person and eventually meet a woman--is [[misogyny]] really what you think women want? The majority of women are [[progressive]]. Do the basic [[math]]. Real men are [[Reality|realists]], and metaculture is a viable, reality-based alternative to the [[manosphere]].<br />
<br />
It is for all of the [[progressives]] that yearn for a [[social safety net]] that will use the incredible [[wealth]] of our [[society]] to protect people from the abuses of [[capitalism]] and reestablish the [[balance of power]] between workers and owners. You know that the vast majority will support [[evidence-based]] policy if they can just see through the [[propaganda]] that pervades our media. You know that the people who stand in opposition to [[progress]] use [[religion]] as the basis for their decision making. How can they ever change their minds about [[climate change]] without changing their [[literal]] view of [[scripture]]?<br />
<br />
metaculture is for everyone, but in the present moment it fills a vital need to present an alternative [[belief system]] that fulfills the same need for [[certainty]] offered by [[religions]], [[Grift|scam artists]], and [[JP and JC|right-wing ideologues]]. It is able to do this by putting [[science]] and [[self-correction]] as its core value to avoid the pitfalls of [[dogma]].<br />
<br />
== Why the Lower Case "m"? ==<br />
[[File:M-is-for-metaculture.png|thumb|200x200px|Not a [[wikipedia:Proper_noun|proper noun]]]]<br />
metaculture is not a name for a particular [[philosophy]]. It is a common noun used to describe the emergent, global, [[Culturally neutral|common culture]] that will allow future generations to [[In-group|recognize their shared humanity]] and cooperate effectively while retaining long-held [[traditions]], heritage and uniqueness. It represents the generalized [[sociological]] and [[psychological]] principles that underlie all human [[cultures]], whatever those may be, rather than a specific theory about what those are. <br />
<br />
Similarly, we know there are "true" [[laws of physics]] that govern the [[universe]], and [[science]] can only improve our approximation of them over time. metaculture's current form is like the current state of [[science]], with the common goal of better approximating the thing it seeks to describe by incorporating new evidence. <br />
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The lower case "m" emphasizes the fact that metaculture is not the [[philosophy]] of any one person or group, but an abstract and [[inevitable]] concept that, whatever form it takes, will be the next step in [[cultural]] [[evolution]]. This [[wiki]] seeks to describe that thing, regardless of whether or not it ''is'' that thing. Though it [[Belief System#Why Hasn't Anyone Done This?|offers itself as an alternative among few viable candidates]].<br />
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Likewise, references to [[god]] are also lower case to indicate the generic term for [[god]] and not the implied Judeo-Christian ''God'' that the capital "G" typically refers to.<br />
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Does using the lower case at the start of a sentence reinforce the notion of the common noun usage? Or does the distinct violation of language rules make it even more of a proper noun? We will not get into this.<br />
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== Who Are You? ==<br />
<br />
While some corporate [[ethics]] involve pithy slogans like "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_be_evil don't be evil]" that sound good but do little to help resolve modern moral dilemmas, [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises] is directly addressing the problem of evil by developing a [[universal]] [[ethical]] [[philosophy]] that resolves the conflict between [[science]] and [[religion]]. We also sell [https://www.simpleocr.com OCR solutions].<br />
<br />
''We are the good Meta. We are the original Meta. Since 1998.''<br />
<br />
While it was originally developed and hosted by [http://www.metaculture.net Meta Enterprises], metaculture is not meant to represent the opinions or perspective of any individual, organization or ideology. Rather it is an attempt to describe the unwritten belief system that a growing number of [[secular]] [[universalists]] arrive at on their own each day. The components have been written about extensively but separately. The metaculture project seeks to weave this common collection of ideas into a single narrative structure, allowing it to be easily understood, recognized and taught to others. It is a [[necessary prerequisite]] for the building of [[secular institutions]] that bring people together in celebration of these common goals, and for traditional [[religions]] to adapt their [[theology]] to enable coexistence in a globalized world.<br />
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As such, all authorship on this [[wiki]] will be anonymous, so that the ideas are separated from any personality or group.<br />
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For any feedback, commentary, or to request an account and become and editor of this [[wiki]], please email [mailto:fractalguy@metaculture.net fractalguy@metaculture.net]<br />
<br />
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