Inner Velocities and Sustainable Transitions – Devang Vaidya – 25th of July 2024 @ 5 pm – 7 pm BST – Zoom

Inner Velocities and Sustainable Transitions

Devang Vaidya

This seminar on therapeutic transformation draws upon two unconventional sources. One is a short but critical flight protocol that the pilot and co-pilot of any aircraft are required to follow in moments immediately prior to take-off. The other is a related dream I’ve frequently had of being on a plane that’s heading out on a runway. What can we learn about existential change by juxtaposing a standard aeronautical procedure with the uncanny synchronicity of one person’s dream? Let’s see.

I propose that existential transitions occur in a condition of intensity. They require a minimum velocity that also must not be exceeded. The take-off protocol shows the importance of respecting the physical limits of tolerance determined by a dynamic interplay of complex environmental factors. The dream portrays a condition of failure that is potentially meaningful beyond the psyche of the individual dreamer. Together, they show possible ways of mapping ‘lines of flight’ in moments that are ripe for profound and enduring change.

The seminar explores idiosyncratic dimensions of reflexivity as a kind of ethical competence that can be crucial in moments of affective turbulence and existential uncertainty. I will restrain my proposal with a caveat that this level of existence-oriented work is fraught with anxiety and doubt. Yet, it is an ideal that can prove fruitful to remain well-oriented to, without attaining absolute mastery over it.

Do join us if you’ve the inclination and the time. Kierkegaard promises to come along with some salutary edification, bringing an unusual accomplice in tow, Gilles Deleuze, with some light refreshments.

SEA members enjoy a 25% discount at checkout.

A Certificate of Attendance will be emailed to participants.

If you think you have a new and interesting topic to share with us and would like to be our next speaker please, don’t hesitate to contact our events organiser on events@existentialanalysis.org.uk.