JAAugmented State Project
In recent years, there is growing interest in consciousness. Research pertaining to psychedelics is advancing; an altered state of consciousness leads to mental stability and it has become possible to approach consciousness and such experiences through simulations using AI intelligence. Just as in the past when the aim was to achieve a different sense and experience in video and VR, we will explore methods and forms of expression to lead consciousness and experiences into a different realm using current technologies. Additionally, through the operation of NxPC.Lab, we will also develop it as a place of practice.
Research Representative(s):
Hirabayashi Masami
Research Member(s):
Kobayashi Takahiro
, Tobitani Kensuke
This project investigates the history and current developments related to altered states of consciousness and psychedelics, examining both scientific perspectives and cultural and expressive dimensions. This research aims to understand the present situation and consider possibilities for future development. Concerning altered states of consciousness, participants will deepen their proper understanding through the acquisition of knowledge from cognitive science as well as direct experiential approaches. Amidst this, thought experiments, prototyping, and experiential evaluation will be implemented. As clear experimental evaluation of such experiences is anticipated to be challenging, the project will also explore a diverse array of measurement methods, including the use of XR environments, data collection through sensors such as EEGs, and the application of random number generators. The outcomes of these experiments will be presented in the form of artistic works, experiential installations, and expressions that propose expanded notions of consciousness, and will be further developed through exhibitions and academic conference presentations. NxPC.Lab, implemented as a subproject, will serve as a platform for experimentation and presentation. Research outcomes will be presented at relevant academic conferences, including those related to entertainment computing, interaction, VR, and media arts. Additionally, the outcomes will be entered into various competitions as artworks.?
In this fiscal year, the project will build on the knowledge and experimental environment established in the first year. It will involve creating experiences designed to induce altered states of consciousness similar to those associated with psychedelics, while collecting physiological data such as brain wave signals during the experience. Through iterative cycles of creation and experimentation, the project will analyze altered states of consciousness and explore the relationship between experiences and such states.
2025 - Present