Sean Illing talks with psychologist Paul Bloom about his new book The Sweet Spot, and whether it's necessary to experience suffering in order to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. They discuss the rich philosophical history of the question: what does it mean to be happy? They also talk about why some people are drawn to scary movies, whether or not to plug in to the Matrix, and why a good paradigm for a well-lived life might be found in the example of... a stand-up comedian.
Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), Interviews Writer, Vox
Guest: Paul Bloom (@paulbloomatyale), psychologist; author
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This episode was made by:
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Producer: Erikk Geannikis
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Editor: Amy Drozdowska
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Engineer: Paul Robert Mounsey
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Deputy Editorial Director, Vox Talk: Amber Hall
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Vox Audio Fellow: Victoria Dominguez
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