Inner Liberation

Follow Martin Butler
Patreon Channel:   / martinbutler  
YouTube Martin Butler:    / @martinbutlers  
Website: https://martinbutler.eu/
Book: https://martinbutler.eu/the-corporeal...
Twitter:   / martingbutler  

In this in-depth discussion, Martin Butler explores the concept of "inner liberation"—the freedom from the grip of our thoughts and emotions. Martin breaks down how our emotions, largely driven by the survival instinct, impact our lives. Drawing from philosophers like Spinoza, Schopenhauer, and thinkers such as Ernest Becker, Martin emphasizes that liberation doesn’t mean detachment from reality but rather achieving peace by understanding and accepting the mechanisms behind our emotional and mental states.

The series starts with understanding our emotions, the first step towards liberation. Martin explains how emotional pleasure and pain link back to the survival instinct and the desire to exist, which Buddhists argue is the root of all suffering. He underscores that by studying these instincts, we can better understand why we react emotionally, and why real contentment lies not in pursuing happiness but in understanding and controlling the impulses behind our emotions.

In part two, Martin explores the nature of ideas, explaining how most of our thoughts and concepts are ingrained from childhood and unconsciously assimilated. Many of these ideas conflict with each other, leading to internal tension. Martin encourages listeners to examine these ideas objectively, to strip away the falsehoods that keep us bound to emotional suffering.

The final sections cover practical techniques for observing and managing emotions. Martin advises against suppressing emotions, which he views as a natural and truthful part of ourselves. He suggests observational techniques, including mindful practices, to achieve a calm detachment that provides a clearer understanding of our emotional landscape.

Through these podcasts, Martin invites listeners to question their own beliefs and assumptions, aiming to shift the listener’s focus from chasing superficial happiness to finding true, inner liberation.
---
CF141 H Inner Liberation
2017-11-21