In the present course, we will focus on the phenomenon of human “consciousness” with two emphases: (1) on the ways consciousness can be controlled, altered, and expanded through either natural or chemical means; and (2) on how some states of consciousness (and of the “unconscious”) are labeled “divinely inspired” or as experiences of the divine. We will also consider how specific religions view such experiences.

Moderator: Don Maloney taught psychology, philosophy, and religion for Univ. of Maryland at US military bases in Europe and Asia. He has also taught at several stateside universities, most recently XU. After receiving his master’s from Gonzaga Univ., he did post-graduate study at Boston College and at universities in France and Germany. He has received OLLI's Stephen Appel Award for excellence in teaching.