Ep 6. Time

In season 1 episode 6 of The Essential Lectures of Alan Watts, titled “Time,” renowned philosopher Alan Watts explores the concept of time and its role in our lives. Throughout the lecture, Watts challenges traditional notions of time as a linear measurement and instead proposes that time is more accurately understood as a subjective experience that varies depending on our psychological state.

Watts begins the episode by discussing how we often view time as a straight line, with past events behind us and future events ahead. However, he argues that this view is limiting and fails to acknowledge the complexity of our experience of time. Watts suggests that time operates more like a spiral, with each moment building upon the ones that came before and influencing the ones that follow.

From here, Watts delves deeper into the subjective experience of time, arguing that our perception of time is heavily influenced by our state of mind. He cites examples such as the feeling of time flying by when we are engaged in activities we enjoy, and the experience of time dragging on when we are bored or restless. Watts contends that time is not an objective measure, but rather a subjective perception that varies depending on our mental and emotional state.

Throughout the lecture, Watts draws upon a diverse range of traditions and disciplines, including Buddhism, Taoism, and neuroscience, to explore the complexity of time and its role in our lives. He suggests that by letting go of our attachment to linear time and instead embracing the cyclical and subjective nature of time, we can cultivate a deeper sense of presence and awareness in our lives.

Overall, season 1 episode 6 of The Essential Lectures of Alan Watts presents a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of time and its role in our lives. By challenging traditional notions of time and proposing a more nuanced and subjective understanding of this complex concept, Alan Watts encourages us to reevaluate our relationship with time and cultivate a greater sense of awareness and presence in our lives.