Imagination as Knowing:

re-imagine,
re-inhabit,
re-appreciate
the imagination.


How does the imagination work?

What is the psychology of it?

Across 8 weeks, explore the imaginal as a way of knowing aspects of reality that are otherwise inaccessible to us.


You’ll learn how the imagination unlocks creativity, enhances meaning, unveils the depths of spirituality and bridges the realms of perception and reason.


Transform your understanding of yourself, your world, and the possibilities that surround you in the (seemingly mundane) every day.





john vervaeke, lectern, online course, imagination, how does it work

Course Overview

In a joint lecture-seminar format, John will take you between ancient traditions and cutting-edge science through the lenses of philosophy, psychology, and cross-cultural historical anthropology.

spirituality, psychology, philosophy, meaning, flow
Live Teaching and Engagement

2 Hour sessions taught live by John Vervaeke consisting of a lecture and a seminar discussion.


Reflective Assignments

Synthesize your learning with guided writing assignments. Optional but encouraged.


Peer Discussions

Meet with fellow students to discuss and accelerate your progress.


flow, christianity, God, identity, religion

Learning Outcomes


Understand the Cognitive Foundations of the Imaginal

  • Grasp key concepts from cognitive science, including predictive processing, relevance realization, and 4E cognitive science, and their relationship to imagination and perception.


Integrate Philosophical and Spiritual Perspectives

  • Explore how the imaginal intersects with philosophical and religious traditions, especially within the works of, Corbin, Ibn Arabi, Segall and Hedley.


Apply the Imaginal to Self-making and Transformation

  • Reflect on the imaginal’s role in shaping identity, self-perception, and personal growth.



Transform your understanding of reality through the imaginal. Course runs from

February 7th - March 28th, Every Friday at 10am EST.

Payment plans, group packages, course bundles and student discounts available below!

See you in class!

Choose a Pricing Option

(Currently enrolled university students are eligible for student aid. 

Please email [email protected] with the subject "[Name] Student Aid" and proof of student status for more information.)

Course Bundle


This course is available as part of bundles with other courses on The Lectern with convergent and/or complimentary arguments to accelerate your learning.

The Imaginal Road

Payment Plans Available

Courses: 2

$900

Reimagining Spinoza

Payment Plans Available

Courses: 2

$900

Season Pass

Access all of John's Courses for 2025!

Courses: 4

$2,100

Group Bundles


You can also enrol with a friend or two (or three!) for a joint discount on all of your course fees. We hope that being able to learn together will enrich the impact your experience of the course!

Dyad Bundle

Enroll with a friend to receive $100 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $333/month

Triad Bundle

Enroll with 2 friends to receive $150 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $450/month

Tetrad Bundle

Enroll with 3 friends to receive $200 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $533/month