Inquiring into the role that paradox and double-binds play within the work of Alan W. Watts, this essay addresses a quintessential theme in Watts’ philosophy: a twofold sense of ontological estrangement (i.e., from oneself and from the cosmos). Such paradoxical separation constitutes an ontological double-bind and is referred to herein as life’s ultimate riddle. Based on an exegesis of 73 of Watts’ books, articles, and secondary sources, this essay presents what is called Wattsian double-bind theory, which extends David Smith’s (2010) triadic thesis of Watts’ mature works featuring a three-fold conceptual structure: the field, the double-bind, and play. Following an overview of Wattsian ontology, this essay then aims to (a) identify Watts’ double-bind framework informed by paradox, koans, double-binds, and their resolution via acceptance; (b) clarify the similarities and vast differences between Wattsian and classical Batesonian double-bind theories; and (c) reveal the interconnected elegance of the former, as it occurs in the themes of language, time, perception, identity, science, and religion.
Drawing from Alan Watts’s philosophy of paradox, this essay aims to articulate an integrative framework of ontological paradox (i.e., that all aspects of existence feature distinct and integral dimensions). The metaphysical tenet of separation, which undergirds scientific materialism and denies humanity’s embedded place in the world, is merely one pattern of participating in such a paradox. What then are the different types of ways, beyond a materialistic ontology, in which individuals can relate to and participate in the ever-evolving whole of existence (and whole of themselves)? Spanning the fields of philosophy, science, psychology, religion, and mysticism, this integrative inquiry seeks to reconcile and synthesize a broad range of orientations to ontological paradox into a greater frame of reference. The result is the limb and pillar matrix. Providing an alienation-integration spectrum that applies to both internal/micro paradox (i.e., the relation of one’s self to oneself) and external/macro paradox (i.e., the relation of self to the cosmic whole), the limb and pillar matrix consists of five key questions or “pillars” and seven “limbs” or patterns of participating in paradox. The pillars of paradox relate to (a) the existence and (b) resolvability of ontological paradox, as well as (c) access, (d) progressive resolution, and (e) stabilization of resolution (i.e., full integration). The limbs of paradox establish seven multivalent participatory patterns: ignorance, denial, deferment, bypass, transcendence, resolution, and dissolution.
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