Episode Details

We talk about the challenge of focusing on normal life, Trump’s fundamental laziness and capriciousness, art after tragedies like 9/11, the diminishing returns of escapism, dystopia-induced anxiety vs depression, eschatological beliefs, children as an investment with delayed returns, society vs selfishness, the hierarchy of self-identification, what capitalism can and can’t solve, America as non-dualist, alternative energy opportunities and challenges.

Mentioned in this episode

Spun (2002 film starring Jason Schwartzman, Brittany Murphy)

Ill Fares the Land - book by historian Tony Judt

Sold a Story - podcast series about reading instruction in American schools (“whole language” vs phonics and the science of reading)