#103: The Divided Brain, Attention & Meaning - Iain McGilchrist

Dr. Iain McGilchrist, a psychiatrist, philosopher, and author, joins the FitMind Podcast to explain how the brain’s two hemispheres shape our perception, attention, and consciousness. He explores how the left brain’s dominance in modern culture leads to a fragmented, analytical worldview, while the right hemisphere offers a more connected, meaningful experience of reality. We discuss the moral and spiritual dimensions of attention, the limits of language, the nature of consciousness and the self, and how walking supports fluid thinking. McGilchrist also shares insights from his recent work with biologist Mike Levin on emergence and form. This episode combines neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, inviting a shift toward a more balanced and integrated perspective on the world. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Iain McGilchrist 2:09 | Attention in Left & Right Brain 17:00 | How the Left Brain Came to Dominate 19:08 | Brain Hemispheres & Happiness 25:25 | Why Right Brain is the True Master 34:30 | Great Truths 35:19 | Morality of Attention 41:44 | Explaining Sacred 45:12 | Shortcomings of Language 51:28 | Distinct vs. Divided 56:20 | Balancing Brain Hemispheres 1:06:31 | Sense of Self & Relations 1:12:15 | Mirror Neurons 1:14:32 | Walking for Fluidity of Thought 1:23:34 | Consciousness Theory 1:31:07 | Water Analogy 1:35:52 | Work with Mike Levin 1:46:22 | Where to Follow His Work Substack: https://iainmcgilchrist.substack.com/ Website: https://channelmcgilchrist.com