There is no doubt that positive emotions are worth cultivating. But must we be upbeat all of the time? Is there a healthy side of negative emotions and some value in experiencing them? Many philosophers (Schopenhauer comes to mind here) argue that embracing the full range of our emotions (including…
In an older (but not outdated) article in the Atlantic, Hope Reese interviews Rebecca Newberger Goldstein — philosopher and author of Plato at the Googleplex — who discusses the value of studying philosophy and why it is critical to our lives. From helping us increase our humanity to becoming responsible…
Does surveillance contribute or detract from our moral growth? Alfred University Professor of Philosophy Emrys Westacott discusses the complicated relationship between surveillance and moral edification by exploring the following questions: What is the impact of ubiquitous surveillance on our moral character? How might the advent of a surveillance society affect…
Living a virtuous life involves much more than what’s included on a resume. It involves cultivation of a particular sort — a striving for and obtaining of what David Brooks — New York Times columnist and author — refers to as ‘eulogy virtues.’ In a heartfelt discussion about the sorts…
The benefits of intergenerational mixing are numerous. In yesteryear, it was quite common to see generations living together (or near one another) & mingling on a daily basis. Unfortunately, this has become more of an exception than a norm. To combat this, some innovative exchange programs like the Humanitas program…
America is facing a new reality. Americans are living longer than ever. Soon, elders will outnumber the young. What does this mean in terms of how we care for our loved ones (and ourselves)? How we manage our finances & juggle work and personal obligations? How we structure our healthcare,…
What does it mean for something to be a fact? What about an opinion? And how do either (or both) of these relate to morality and value claims or moral truths? Justin P. McBrayer, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Fort Lewis College, provides a fascinating (albeit troubling) look at how…
Do compassion and happiness matter? Without hesitation, yes! But how so? His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet reviews this very topic and provides his unique & insightful perspective on the importance of happiness and compassion to the individual and society at large. In the process, he discusses:…
