Tart - Chapter 6

Tart begins emphasizing in this chapter how dynamic a d-Soc really is - so much so that there are four types of systems involved that allow and maintain its stability. With these processes continually at work, whether alone or in conjunction with one another, it is no wonder why an altered state of consciousness may be difficult to reach. This upholds Tart's theory that that one must continually work at obtaining a d-ASC.

One of the first things I noticed from the reading was one of Tart's descriptions of an ordinary d-Soc. He offered that this includes dependable relationships. I thought that was so true and would fit into the list we compiled in class for an awareness of normal state of mind. Often in dreams, normal, "dependable" relationships do seem twisted and warped.

When tart explained the thinking process, he provided a positive example and I thought this could surely go both ways. For instance, in a negative outlook, someone might think, not so much about things that please them, but about things that upset, bother, or anger them. This in turn may cause the individual to feel pitiable, these feelings of despair and melancholy leading to anxiety and/or depression. Depression can be a hurtful reminder to the individual of negative influences and circumstances going on in their life which could cycle back to feeling upset or angry.

Tart's reference to hypnagogic thoughts reminded me of when I used to babysit as a teenager. One couple, in particular, that I worked for, had a habit of staying out a couple hours later than what they initially told me resulting in my struggling efforts to stay awake until one or so in the morning. I can still remember the feeling of trying hard to stay awake, drifting off to sleep, catching myself doing so in alarm, and then fighting to stay awake (meanwhile feeling somewhat proud that I didn't succumb to a deep sleep - what Tart refers to as "physical world survival priority").