Can Cognitive Science Reveal the Fourth R of Human Connection?

Dr. John Vervaeke

Gregg Henriques is a clinical psychologist and professor at James Madison University. He is known for his Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), which integrates various domains of psychology into a coherent framework.

What drives our social connections and sense of belonging? In this episode, originally recorded at the UTOC 2024 conference, John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques explore the profound concept of recursive relevance realization, focusing on its integration into a fourth R: interpersonal relationality. Their conversation intricately weaves together cognitive science, philosophy, and psychotherapy, presenting a compelling case for understanding how relevance realization shapes social value and collective intelligence. By providing insights into predictive processing and the influence matrix, they uncover the complex dynamics of human cognition and social interaction. This episode not only offers a theoretical framework but also practical strategies for fostering meaningful connections in various aspects of life.

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“Meaning in life is exactly what Gregg described: what keeps you going even when your subjective well-being is going down.” - John Vervaeke [00:39:15]

“We need to be connected to what we deem to be really real.” - John Vervaeke [00:42:12]

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00:00 Introduction: Exploring the Fourth R

03:50 The Importance of Interpersonal Relationality

07:30 Exploring the Connection between Recursive Relevance Realization and the Influence Matrix

12:20 Anticipatory Relevance Realization: Integrating with the Influence Matrix and Predictive Processing

21:10 The Fourth R: Collective Intelligence and Reciprocal Recognition

23:30 Personal Memories and Relational Dynamics: Practical Examples

30:25 Integrating Theories: Bridging Science, Therapy, and Collective Intelligence

34:55 Social Influence vs. Relational Value: Implications for Society

38:35 Meaning in Life and Belonging: Integrative Insights

46:05 Reflections on Self and Social Justice: Future Directions

48:30 Final Thoughts: Collaboration and Convergence

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Ideas, Authors, and Works Mentioned in this Episode

Timothy Leary - Circumplex Model

John Bowlby’s Attachment Theory

Michael Levin - Cognitive Light Cone

Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel

Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit by Terry Pinkard

Jim Rutt - GameB Concept

Kelly-Ann Allen

Joshua Hicks

Grice's Maxims of Conversation

Untangling the World Knot - John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques

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Follow Gregg Henriques: Website | Twitter | UTOK

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Thank you for watching!