Interviews with John Buchanan

John Buchanan - Key Concepts of a Whiteheadian Postmodern Paradigm. Consciousness Perspectives Forum, 12th September 2022

ORTline 23 Book Conference

In this hour-long presentation and discussion, I begin by talking briefly about my recent publication, "Processing Reality." This is followed by four interrogaters- Karl Forehand. Sheri Kling, Pam Bulzaka, and Roger Wolsey - who discuss their thoughts on aspects of "Processing Reality" and offer questions for me to respond to briefly. Mine was only one of the seventeen sessions that were held over two days during the International Online Open and Relational Theological Conference, organized by Thomas J Oord.

In our discussion with John we discuss Whitehead, some of the things that made his philosophy so revolutionary, why he isn't more well known today, and why he should be. His philosophy rejects the atheism and materialism of the current 'scientific' worldview, making room for the entire range of human experience. Another advantage is that Whitehead as a mathematician was well versed in the relativity and quantum theories that have come to characterize our contemporary science and technology, and his philosophy accounts for them too. We also discuss the intriguing parallels with first sight theory and its implications for a philosophy of perception and consciousness, and the nature of reality.

Alfred North Whitehead -
A Philosophy For Our Time

Processing Reality
– Exeter Keynote Speech

Keynote given to the Philosophy and Psychedelic Studies conference at the University of Exeter 2022. Introduction to John Buchanan by Peter Sjostedt-Hughes.

ABSTRACT: In his new book, John Buchanan relates five key events that gave rise to urgent questions concerning the meaning of life and the nature of reality. Psychedelic experiences played a particularly significant role for both of these areas.

Show notes:

  • We're living in a troubled world right now

  • Five pivotal events that shaped John's thinking

  • John's first psychedelic experience

  • Working with Whitehead's process philosophy

  • Alternative modes of consciousness

  • The use of psychedelics with terminal patients

  • Ego Death VS. Dying

Links and references:

• Psychedelic Wisdom by Dr. Richard L. Miller

• Psychedelic Medicine by Dr. Richard L. Miller

• Coke Enders Alcohol and Drug Program

• Parapsychology, Philosophy, & Spirituality by David Griffin

• Processing Reality: Finding Meaning in Death, Psychedelics, and Sobriety by John

Buchanan

Join the Journey into Consciousness with John Buchanan

Exploring the Transformative Power of Alternative Modes of Consciousness

RICHARD L. MILLER: What does the current state of the world and addiction treatment programs have to do with Whitehead's process philosophy? John Buchanan, president of the Helios Foundation, brings them all together. He joins us to explore his personal healing journey, the use of psychedelics with terminal patients, and the possibility of life after death. John emphasizes the importance of understanding interconnectedness and taking deliberate action, which he has learned throughout many pivotal moments in his life. Our thought- provoking conversation offers insights into the complexities of our world and the importance of developing a holistic perspective in order to make positive change. Don't miss this intriguing conversation that offers a unique perspective on the world and the universe we inhabit.

"You know, we have a lot of choices in life and maybe there's choices in death too."

John H. Buchanan received his master's degree in humanistic/transpersonal psychology from West Georgia College and his doctorate from the Graduate Institute of the Liberal Arts at Emory University. He has been trained and certified as a Holotropic Breathwork practitioner by Stan and Christina Grof. His book, "Processing Reality: Finding Meaning in Death, Psychedelics, and Sobriety", based upon his continuing interests in process philosophy and transpersonal psychology, was published in the fall of 2022. Buchanan has contributed a number of journal articles and book chapters on similar topics, and in 2020 was contributing co-editor for "Rethinking Consciousness: Extraordinary Challenges for Contemporary Science". Dr. Buchanan also serves as president of the Helios Foundation.