Jennifer Michael Hecht, author, science historian, philosopher, and poet, discusses the changing concept of happiness in different cultures and times. She critiques the skeptic community's reliance on science resembling religion. They explore the complex relationship between faith and doubt, blending religious beliefs with skepticism, and the intersection of skepticism, atheism, and the arts. The discussion challenges societal obsessions with longevity and diet, emphasizing living a meaningful life over extending life. They touch on happiness, atheism, and the impact individuals have on each other.
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Quick takeaways
The concept of happiness has evolved over time and across cultures, questioning the simplistic query 'are you happy?'
Valuable truths can be found in poetry, art, and meditation, offering insights beyond the boundaries of scientific inquiry.
Deep dives
Exploring the Intersection of Doubt and Faith
The podcast delves into the historical perspective of doubt and faith, challenging the common assumption that religious belief and skepticism are incompatible. Through the discussion of religious skeptics in history like St. Augustine and Maimonides, it highlights how individuals can embrace doubt while still incorporating religious terminology.
Poetry as a Source of Truth and Understanding
The episode explores the concept of poetry, art, and meditation as valuable sources of truth. Jennifer advocates for poetry's ability to convey deep truths about human experiences and emotions, offering insights that extend beyond the realm of scientific inquiry.
Challenging Conventional Notions of Happiness and Longevity
Jennifer challenges societal obsessions with longevity and happiness, questioning the emphasis on living longer without considering the purpose of extended life. By critiquing common beliefs surrounding diet, exercise, and happiness studies, she encourages a reevaluation of traditional views on well-being.
Author, science historian, philosopher, and poet Jennifer Michael Hecht discusses her views on science, religion, and skepticism. She talks about her book "The Happiness Myth", showing how the very concept of happiness has changed dramatically both in time and across cultures, to the point that it may make little sense to simply ask “are you happy”? Also she makes her skeptical comments on the findings of science, for instance concerning eating and exercise habits, and how the skeptic community's reliance on science borders on religion.
Jennifer teaches at the New School in New York City. She is the author of Doubt: A History: The Great Doubters and Their Legacy of Innovation from Socrates and Jesus to Thomas Jefferson and Emily Dickinson and of The Happiness Myth: The Historical Antidote to What Isn't Working Today, among other books.
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