Stories We Tell Ourselves About Death
Discovering the Jerk in You
Reflective Equilibrium
Have you ever wondered what it takes to think like a philosopher? According to many, the capacity for reflective equilibrium is imperative. According to Massimo Pigliucci, Professor of Philosophy at City College of New York, it is a fundamental tool in the philosopher’s toolbox. But what exactly is reflective equilibrium…
Cynicism & Dementia
A healthy amount of doubt and skepticism (in its generic sense) is a good thing. But what happens when skepticism goes radically awry or turns into cynicism? According to George Carlin, “Inside every cynical person, there is a disappointed idealist.” Put in context…yes! However, one could also argue that idealism…
Let’s Talk About Death & Dying
Anxiety & Depression
Almost everyone experiences anxiety and depression — some more debilitating in form than others. What do some of the more extreme versions feel like? Can therapy help? Is there some sort of value or existential significance to such conditions? According to Scott Stossel, editor of The Atlantic and author of…
Why Do We Believe Weird Things?
Why are we so prone to believe weird things…such as seeing faces on mars or hearing demonic lyrics in “Stairway to Heaven”? Using video and music, Michael Shermer, editor of Skeptic magazine and the director of the Skeptics Society, shows how the eternal search for meaning & spiritual fulfillment often…