David’s guest today is Dr Joan Walton, a researcher in the School of Education, Psychology and Language at York St John University, UK.  Joan has had an interest in consciousness studies from her early 20s, influenced initially by the work of Carl Jung, which led her to the work of other transpersonal psychologists, philosophers, scientists and writers about religions and spiritual traditions. Her focus has always been on the relevance of intellectual exploration for how we live our lives on a daily basis, and her working life in social work and education has reflected this. Passionate about the importance of early years, Joan’s current research focuses on how to enhance the quality of intergenerational relating, with the aim of creating inclusive communities which encourage connection and compassion through the nurturing of mutually caring relationships across generations. Central to this is the idea of a participatory consciousness, in which everything and everyone is interconnected.  Joan is a member of the Board of Directors in the SMN, a member of the Galileo Commission Steering Group,  and Chair of the Executive Committee of the International Network for the Study of Spirituality.  

Imaginal Inspirations is hosted by David Lorimer, Programme Director of the Scientific and Medical Network and Chair of the Galileo Commission, an academic movement dedicated to expanding the evidence base of a science of consciousness. Imaginal cells are responsible for the metamorphosis of the caterpillar into a butterfly, which is the Greek symbol for the soul. These cells are dormant in the caterpillar but at a critical point of development they create the new form and structure which becomes the butterfly.

scientificandmedical.net 

galileocommission.org

beyondthebrain.org

Works and links mentioned:

Publications by Joan Walton: https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/view/author_id/1840.html

https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/p-w-martin/experiment-in-depth/9780710083937

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-psychology-of-consciousness/robert-ornstein/9781949358988

https://spiritual-awakenings.net/ also available as a podcast https://redcircle.com/shows/spiritual-awakenings

Production: Martin Redfern

Artwork: Amber Haas

Music: Life is a River, by Magnus Moone