This week, we explore the individual, collective, and communal aspects of consciousness. We begin with a (mostly coherent) discussion on sensation, perception, and what makes conscious beings conscious. Then, we explore existentialism, existential therapy, and Carl Jung’s theory of a collective well of unconscious experiences shared among a species. During the second half of the episode, we move into a social exploration of community knowledge, how consciousness and change emerges from communities, and how the process of change is affected by crime, outside influences determining a community’s needs, and policing.

NPR - Are Dogs Self-Conscious?

Animal consciousness

Annaka Harris - Conscious

Existential therapy

The fourth wall

Carl Jung’s collective unconscious

Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative

Dudley Neighbors, Inc.

Seattle crime map

Boston crime map

Orville Peck - Dead of Night

Lizzo - Truth Hurts

Orville Peck - Turn to Hate

Music credits: Joe Arroyo.