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You probably think of epilepsy as a serious and scary condition. But what if, for some people, it also opens a door to something profound?
That’s the fascinating premise behind Pop Mech’s hit story, “This Rare State of Consciousness May Reveal a ‘Direct Perception’ of the World”. The story unpacks “ecstatic epilepsy,” where an epileptic seizure is preceded by a jolt of euphoria, peace, and clarity. People who experience it say they feel closer to God, and even to the fabric of the universe itself.
Trippy, right? Watch Pop Mech editors Andrew Daniels and Jamie Sorcher talk about what this altered state supposedly feels like, how it might be similar to the effects of psychedelics or meditation, and why some scientists think these ecstatic flashes could explain religious visions.
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Andrew and Jamie also discuss if ecstatic epilepsy may hold the key to understanding consciousness, and why some patients say they don’t want a cure.
For the science, spirituality, and mystery of ecstatic epilepsy, watch the full episode above now—and find more installments of “The Astounding Pop Mech Show” on PopularMechanics.com.
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