Giovanni Mariotti

This article investigates the neurophysiological basis of autonomously induced mystical states of consciousness (MSCs), with a focus on speculative mysticism, a tradition that centers on intellectual contemplation rather than emotional or sensuous experience. Drawing from historical sources, the paper explores the role of paradox and contradiction in mystical thought. It argues that the deliberate contemplation of theological contradictions challenges the psychological principle of non-contradiction and the drive for cognitive consistency, as articulated in Cognitive Consistency Theory (CCT) and the Free Energy Principle (FEP). The Entropic Brain Hypothesis (BEN) is introduced to propose that resisting the resolution of logical contradictions may increase brain entropy, potentially inducing MSCs analogous to those achieved through psychedelics. The central hypothesis is that mystical acquiescence, the intentional engagement with divine contradictions without resolving them, can serve as a mechanism for the autonomous induction of high-entropy, altered states of consciousness. This hypothesis offers a testable framework for integrating historical mystical practices into contemporary neuropsychological research.

This paper aims to understand the Lovecraftian weird through the analysis of two, deeply intertwined, themes of hiswritings: the parody of religion through the construction of an inverted theology, and the ineffable as the attempt toexpress the unknown. In §1, the character and philosophical outlook of Lovecraft will be presented, with a particularfocus on his atheism and his consideration of truth; §2 will explore the unique brand of terror-fuelled escapism whichLovecraft associates with weirdness; §3 will delve into the Cthulhu Mythos as an anti-mythology, before §4, in whichthe omnipresent theme of ineffability is discussed in relation to mysticism.