From my understanding: the idealist perspective tends to implement a rather simple understanding to consciousness by stating that consciousness is a metaphysical phenomenon unable to be deciphered by the materialist perspective (through science). This is because science within the materialist perspective is reductionist (specifically methodological). If consciousness is produced only by the brain and there being no other form of intervention but phsycial and observable, then there is no transcendental state of awareness (tsa) or out of body experience (obe) into other realms. I do not think there would be this link between the brain, computer and the structure of cities if it were not for a metaphysical phenomenon behind all of this. If there is a purpose for all of this, what it the purpose? If materialism is capable of only knowing what is available but not the absolute truth, then materialism may not find the purpose behind this phenomenon. Idealism would have a shortcut toward the absolute truth.

This intellectual challenge may end up in debates like the one's over the existence of god. Debates like these still root back to the same philosophical conflict in Ancient Greece i.e. Idealism vs Materialism.

To reinstate: materialism knows that it will not find the definate answer to everything, but it will gather as much knowledge as possible, thus we put trust in materialism along the way, yet still won't know the absolute truth.

Idealism let's us know the world from within our minds and may pave us toward an absolute truth. Since the absolute truth is out there, there could be a way to it. However nobody has found it... yet.

I don't have a definite position on this, especially when being confronted with the seemingly eternal philosophical conflict between the materialist and idealist perspective. Oof.

As for the "honest pursuit of truth", I am skeptical yet open minded to consider the anecdotal reports of tsa an obe since these phenomenons are so common and relatable. I am however cautious enough to admit not knowing at all of what is happening. Just "thoughts" remain to the end of this day.

The materialist and the idealist have to meet at the end in order for humanity to find that absolute truth. As for now, I know nothing more anyway.