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In Search of Ecstasy

Jules Evans of Queen Mary, University of London explores rationalists' suspicions about states of high elation, asking 'is it dangerous or beneficial to feel ecstatic?'.

The audience at a rock concert adoring the star; a Pentecostalist congregation praising God; an athlete reaching the pitch of performance known as "the zone" - these can all be described as feelings of "ecstasy". Jules Evans, from Queen Mary, University of London, examines rationalist arguments about elation being a form of madness and asks whether it is beneficial or dangerous to feel ecstatic.

Producer: Zahid Warley

First broadcast in November 2013.

Available now

15 minutes

Broadcasts

  • Fri 1 Nov 2013 22:45
  • Thu 28 Aug 2014 22:30

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The Arts & Ideas Podcast

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