On Thursday February 8, 2024 Jacob Adler gave a lecture entitled The Metaphysics of Sound for the Fran Park Center series “Faith & Science”. Jacob delved into the fascinating realm of mystical experiences, exploring their diverse forms, triggers, and potential scientific explanations. Mystical experiences were described as profound altered states of consciousness that could lead to insights into absolute truth, unity with the cosmos, and detachment from the self. These experiences were said to occur unexpectedly or be intentionally induced through practices like meditation, prayer, or psychedelic drugs.

Historical and contemporary examples of mystical experiences were shared, ranging from the migraine visions of Hildegard of Bingen to Dostoevsky's ecstatic seizures and near-death experiences recounted by Juliana of Norwich. The role of psychoactive substances in inducing transcendental states was also touched upon, with anecdotes illustrating profound spiritual revelations. 

The scientific exploration of mystical experiences was examined, focusing on neurological studies. Research indicating the involvement of specific brain regions in facilitating these experiences, such as the temporal lobe and temporoparietal cortex, was highlighted. However, the lecture also acknowledged the limitations of purely neurological explanations for the profound meaning and significance attributed to mystical encounters.

The use of music as a tool for inducing mystical experiences was discussed, citing examples of compositions and musical styles designed to evoke meditative trance states. Personal experiences organizing music events aimed at fostering spiritual and emotional journeys within a community setting were shared.

In the second half of the lecture, the mathematical underpinnings of harmony in music was explored, particularly the harmonic series and just intonation tuning systems. It was suggested that understanding these mathematical relationships could deepen appreciation of the inherent beauty and complexity of music and potentially enhance the ability to induce transformative experiences through sound.

Jacob performed an excerpt of Charlemagne Palestine's piano work Strumming Music to demonstrate trance-inducing repetition, the harmonic resonance of piano strings, and psychoacoustic effects. This performance was followed by a stimulating Q & A session with the audience. 

If you’d like to rewatch the lecture it can be accessed here.