This chapter discusses the satisfaction and enrichment that comes from fully engaging in an activity without conscious thought, emphasizing the unique and embodied nature of art and literature. It explores the difficulties of translating poetry and the importance of experiencing the implicit and embodied aspects of creativity.
Psychiatrist and author Iain McGilchrist talks about his book, The Master and His Emissary, with EconTalk host Russ Roberts. McGilchrist argues we have misunderstand the purpose and effect of the divided brain. The left side is focused, concrete, and confident while the right side is about integration of ourselves with the complexity of the world around us. McGilchrist uses this distinction to analyze the history of western civilization. This is a wide-ranging conversation that includes discussions of poetry, philosophy, and economics.