Last week, Jack gave a clear example of “state” and its reflection in knowing. He said when we are “tired” the state influences thoughts, perceptions and mood. For example, it is difficult to feel enthused or interested when tired.
The “state specificity” of experience manifests in many ways. For example, when we are depressed, angry or fearful the hue of these states color perception and meaning.
We might think of “state” as “a way of being”. All ways of being are ways of knowing and include, as a unitary presence, both the perception of circumstance and perception of self.
This places “way of being” central to experience instead of self at the center.
Hayward
