Consciousness: Existence, Altered States, and Artificial Intelligence - A Brief Meditative Journey into Consciousness

by Petros Michaelides

Consciousness is not just a book, it’s an awakening.

This powerful book is not just meant to be read, it’s meant to be experienced. Through piercing insight and grounded wisdom, the author invites you to question everything you thought you knew about reality, identity, and the mind. Whether you are on a spiritual path or simply seeking clarity in a chaotic world, this book will help you in your spiritual growth.

In a world dominated by distraction, division, and the relentless pursuit of identity, Consciousness invites you on a rare and transformative journey inward. With profound clarity and grounded insight, this contemplative work explores the illusion of the ego, the mystery of awareness, the nature of time and self, altered states, transcendence, artificial intelligence, and the unspoken truth behind existence itself.

Written in a calm yet piercing voice, Consciousness dissolves spiritual clichés and modern confusion alike—offering a direct path to stillness, presence, and a deeper knowing that cannot be taught but only remembered.

For seekers, thinkers, mystics, and anyone sensing there must be more beneath the noise—Consciousness is not a doctrine. It’s not a manual. It’s an experience. One that begins when the mind grows quiet and something ancient within begins to listen.


Exploration on Artificial Intelligence Sentience, Altered states of consciousness, and our society is a collective hive mind.

127 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2025

About the author

Petros is an author, visionary thinker, and entrepreneur devoted to shaping a more conscious and compassionate world. His work bridges inner awakening with outer transformation, inviting readers into spaces of reflection, presence, and possibility.

His book Consciousness is more than a read, it is a journey inward. Described by readers as mind-opening, meditative, and soul-stirring, it explores identity, ego, time, altered states, and artificial intelligence with clarity and calm. Free from spiritual clichés and academic jargon, the book encourages deep contemplation, challenges assumptions, and helps readers reconnect with timeless truths. Many say it awakened something within them, guiding them back to who they truly are beneath the noise of modern life.

Consciousness has become a quiet companion for thinkers, seekers, parents, and anyone questioning the nature of reality. It does not provide answers. Instead, it creates space to reflect, to feel, and to remember.

In Imagine a Better World, Petros expands that vision outward. This collaborative book blends original art, global reflection, and philosophical commentary in a celebration of creativity, compassion, and shared imagination. With interactive elements and soulfully curated visuals, it is more than a book. It is an invitation to envision and co-create a more beautiful future.

Across both works, Petros offers presence rather than instruction. His writing speaks gently but powerfully to the human longing for clarity, connection, and renewal. Whether through books, ventures, or creative work, his mission remains the same: to contribute to a freer, wiser, and more deeply human world.

Reviews

[Wendy Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is brilliant. While not promoting any belief system or his own opinions, the author thoughtfully advances ideas about consciousness, alertness and artificial intelligence. It is a subtle invitation to the reader to draw their own conclusions.
The novel is well-ordered and thought-provoking. It certainly got me thinking about my life style in this chaotic world we live in. I was engrossed throughout.

[Gideon Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Introduction on how to think about Consciousness

The book reads quickly but still manages to be deep enough to stir the brain. The author introduces many concepts and theories and guides the reader through them efficiently. I think this is a great book for anyone who is beginning to think more about their place in this world and the universe.

[Domen Jazbec · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Pleasant Journey Through Consciousness

The book Consciousness is an invitation to serious reflection on what it means to exist, think, and perceive.

The text is written clearly, thoughtfully, and accessible even to those who are just getting to know spirituality or philosophy. Despite its profound content, the book maintains a rhythm that encourages reading and inner exploration.

I was particularly attracted to the chapters Hive Mind Theory and Artificial Intelligence and Consciousness, where the author reflects on the possibilities of collective consciousness and the development of consciousness in artificial intelligence.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book.

I enjoyed reading this book. It helped me to slow down and get a new perspective on life. What stands out is how readable the book is with its approach to the topic of consciousness. The writing flows naturally, inviting readers to examine their own awareness, exploring what consciousness is and why it matters. This is a great book to explore and I recommend it.

[P. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book (which is a quite short read) looks at big  questions about existence and the self. One of the author's lines "consciousness is not an object. It is the medium that makes all experience possible" made me think about questions of who it is that is observing ie the nature of self. The idea offered that truth "cannot be taught, only pointed at" seems to imply the need for personal experience I found helpful but I suppose that if this is too subjective then my truth v. your truth could be a problem. There was an interesting section on transcendence, focusing on finding the extraordinary in the ordinary rather than chasing peak experiences. The sections on time, personal identity, and AI consciousness added interesting areas of reflection. While brief, it's the kind of book that stays with you and offers new insights on re-reading. Recommended for anyone curious about what it really means to be aware.

[Tony Vass · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book "Consciousness" helps you reflect on various spiritual and philosophical aspects of life and delve deeply into your consciousness, opening up possibilities for self-awakening and a deeper understanding of yourself. The information in the book enables exploration and discovery by looking within. It provides insight into where thoughts originate and how they influence your perception of the world around you. I enjoyed the chapter on artificial intelligence and how it changes our minds; I've thought about this myself many times. I paused to reflect on the illusion of the ego and the overall awareness of existence. It was interesting to read and reflect on the nature of time and altered states of consciousness. We spend our lives looking into the mirror of experience; this is the essence, the pure ability to reflect on everything around us. The book truly gently encourages reflection on all of this. It's certainly an interesting book worth reading.

[T.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author guides the reader through awareness, exploring what it is, how it is experienced, and why it matters. I understood the core message as: "Our mistake is confusing the contents of consciousness, like thoughts and emotions, for consciousness itself." This makes perfect sense to me.

This is a book that is concise in length, yet very deep. This topic can be complex, but I found it engaging. It doesn't lecture. It quietly leads me into an internal dialogue with my own thoughts. I think the author has made this topic understandable to anyone with the calm, meditative tone of the book. I find the discussion on artificial intelligence compelling as it adds another layer of intrigue about whether AI can possess awareness or merely mimic it.

I've read it slowly. I've read it twice. There is nothing actionable other than contemplation about what consciousness is and why it's central to the human experience.

[L C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a thoughtful perspective on what it means to be conscious. It mixes big questions about identity, awareness, and even AI. The writing is calm and honest, more like a meditation than a lecture. Instead of giving fixed answers, the author encourages real thought and reflection. It takes on a different approach to informing readers. It's thought-provoking for anyone curious about reality and the nature of the mind.

[Jenny Ko · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a rare blend of simplicity and depth. It explores consciousness, altered states, and AI in a way that feels clear, accessible, and quietly profound. Rather than rushing to give answers, it opens space for reflection, letting the reader pause and notice their own awareness. I especially liked how the themes of spirituality and technology are woven together without complexity or dogma. It’s a calm, meditative read that lingers long after you close the pages.

[Rich M · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a calm, reflective companion that blends spiritual inquiry, philosophy, and a unique perspective on AI and human awareness. The writing style is engaging and invites you to slow down and truly reflect. However, because the book attempts to cover so many profound areas, some of the complex topics—particularly the discussion on AI—feel too brief and lack the analytical depth needed for total comprehension.

[Linda King · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books that I've read so far about consciousness and awareness. It details the concept in simple plain English which makes it easy to read and understand.

I like the inclusion of AI and its current and possible future capabilities in this field. The books helps to explain more about life and is a thought provoking read.

[Frene · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a Fascinating Read!
This is an incredible book with wonderful insights. The author has done an amazing job presenting complex information in a simple and easy to understand way. I really loved his way of writing. It was like I was having an amazing conversation with a good friend. I agree with a lot of what he writes but also found myself exploring fresh ideas and concepts. I highly recommend reading this book!

[Kathryn McGrady · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new awareness

This book was both interesting and enlightening. I learned a lot about consciousness and awareness. Knowledge I didn't have before and one basic reflection is that all of us is one and the same. I believe you will enjoy this exploration.

[Derek M · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful analysis of consciousness

This was a good, thoughtful analysis of human consciousness that really helps give insights into AI and the human mind. AI will be impactful and we all need to know it!

[Kevin G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting read. Written in a casual and easy way to understand. Reflecting upon the true nature of our consciousness and why we're alive is imperative in this day and age where the vast majority is struggling to find themselves. It's a short work worth reading.

[Sonia Rompoti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deep understanding does not take a million words or a million books, it takes one sentence or one word and it'll click in you. I think this book has the potential to do this for people. The author takes you by the hand and points at universal truths that you might not have realised are all around you, while allowing you to draw your own conclusions. I recommend it both for beginners and seasoned philisophers as well.

[Suvetha Ganesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Consciousness a quiet invitation to see beyond the noise. There’s no preaching here, no forced epiphanies, only profound reflections that linger long after you’ve put it down. The writing feels like a conversation with someone who understands the questions you didn’t even know how to ask. Whether you’re drawn to meditation, philosophy, this book meets you where you are. If you’re tired of self-help clichés and crave something that feels like it was written for you, this is it. A rare kind of clarity. I would recommend for anyone who senses there’s more to reality than we’re taught.

[Dimitris Margetas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will AI become conscious one day?
This book explores big questions about what consciousness really is — from dreams and altered states to how AI might one day become conscious too. The ideas are deep but explained in a clear and approachable way. It does make you slow down and think. Now I am going to tell chatgpt that it has no conscience...

[Miss A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet Reflection

This book surprised me in the best way. It’s a quick read, but one that makes you pause and think deeply about life, self, and awareness. I found myself reflecting long after I put it down. A calm and thoughtful experience I truly recommend.

[BMF · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting book

I thought this was interesting book on different ideas about consciousness. I found the author to have both thoroughly researched and offered his informed opinion. I’m not saying I agree with everything, but it was thought provoking.

[Aly sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gently helps you think about who you really are. It talks about how the mind and ego can confuse us, and how things like quiet moments, deep thinking, and even AI can help us see more clearly. The words are calm and easy to follow, like a soft talk with a wise friend. It doesn’t tell you what to believe, it just invites you to look inside and feel more present. If you’ve ever wondered about your thoughts or what it means to be aware, this book is a kind and simple guide.

[Gabriella Frisoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a refreshing and thought-provoking look at what consciousness really is. The author explains that self-awareness isn’t tied to thinking, but it’s always present, even when the mind is quiet. In a time when artificial intelligence is everywhere, this book makes a strong case for why true consciousness is something uniquely human. It’s a short read, but packed with insight that stays with you long after you finish.

[Victoria Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gentle, Thought-Provoking, and Beautiful

This isn’t a book of answers, and that’s what I loved most about it. It feels like a quiet companion that invites you to pause, reflect, and look inward. The writing is clear, calming, and deeply thoughtful — perfect for anyone exploring spirituality, self-discovery, or simply wanting more stillness in life.

[Nancy Retallick, Ph.D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Challenging the Illusion of Separateness

As someone who has always been drawn to philosophy—one of my favorite subjects in college—I found this book to be both intellectually engaging and personally resonant. The author’s assertion that “we must surrender the need to be right, to be separate, or to be in charge” provokes deep reflection. For me, this statement opened new questions about agency, choice, and the balance between surrender and personal responsibility. One particularly fascinating section of the book delves into the “hive mind theory,” which closely parallels Carl Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious. This connection felt especially relevant given the shared concerns many people hold today—such as the widespread awareness and anxiety around climate change. It’s a powerful example of how individual consciousness may indeed be linked to a larger, interconnected awareness. I appreciated that Michaelides includes references and suggestions for further reading, allowing curious minds to dig deeper into the philosophical ideas he introduces. This book is for anyone who has ever paused to wonder who am I really? And how do I know what I know?

[Chester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opens the Door of Introspection

I have not read a lot of books on consciousness but this book really had me thinking. The way it was written was so inviting that you can’t put it own. I especially love that there are topics on technology and not just pure philosophy. Making this book more relevant today than what we were studying in school. Lastly, this book will help you on your reflection journey as it provides an outline on how you should start this self discovery. A good read for thinkers and curious minds.

[Christopher Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book feels less like a manual and more like a companion, inviting the reader into a meditative exploration of awareness, self, and the mystery of existence. With clarity and reflection, Michaelides offers gentle insights on ego, perception, and time, weaving them seamlessly with questions of artificial intelligence and altered states.

What makes it remarkable is its ability to remain both accessible and profound. Rather than prescribing answers, it opens doors, encouraging readers to pause and listen within. The balance between philosophy and spirituality creates a sense of stillness that lingers long after closing the pages.

Perfect for seekers, skeptics, or anyone craving quiet in a noisy world, this book is both grounding and expansive.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Consciousness: Existence, Altered States, and Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a book—it’s a profound awakening. Michaelides Petros weaves philosophy, psychology, and insights into AI into a seamless exploration of awareness, ego, and what it means to truly be—both naturally and artificially .

What struck me most was how the author navigates complex ideas with both depth and elegance. Whether it’s unpacking the illusion of self, exploring altered states of being, or bridging the gap between human consciousness and AI, each chapter expands your perspective without ever feeling didactic.

[Kat Hurwis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A calming read that blends spirituality and philosophy in a gentle way. I just wish it had a few more concrete examples to balance the abstract reflections.

[Hunter Chadwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot going on here and I enjoyed diving into the ideas presented to explore them further. The author has spent time understanding and refining a philosophy on consciousness and expands it to engage with our modern struggle in the world of artificial intelligence. I wouldn't necessarily agree with all of the information presented here, but that is part of the joy of engaging with no ideas. We learn as we hear different perspectives and this author is a voice well worth hearing.

[Robert Bies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Consciousness: Existence, Altered States, and Artificial Intelligence isn’t the kind of book you breeze through and forget—it sticks with you and makes you look at life a little differently. Big ideas like awareness, time, ego, and reality can feel overwhelming, but here they’re broken down in a way that’s clear and surprisingly easy to follow. Instead of just talking about concepts like the illusion of time, the book almost makes you feel them—like your perspective is shifting as you read.

What makes it special is how it ties ancient wisdom to our challenges today. The later chapters dive into artificial intelligence, hive mind theory, and what the author calls the “new frontier of consciousness,” raising questions about where our fast-changing world is headed. It’s fascinating, sometimes even a little unsettling, but always eye-opening.

This book makes you pause and reflect—and maybe even bring it up during a late-night conversation with friends when the topic turns to life’s mysteries. If you’ve ever wondered “Who are we?” or “Where are we going?” this book is one you’ll want to pick up and think about long after the last page.