Poets & Thinkers

The Bullshit Economy: How our obsession with control is making us sick with João Sevilhano

Sep 17, 2025
Join João Sevilhano, a psychologist, business consultant, and philosopher, as he dives into the 'bullshit economy' that prioritizes control over genuine human connection. He challenges our obsession with certainty and metrics, arguing it's hurting our mental health. João explores the need for creativity and play in art, and critiques how modern capitalism shapes education and personal development. He advocates for balancing technology with human wisdom to foster true growth and ethical discernment in society.
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INSIGHT

Certainty As A Social Pathology

  • Psychopathology rises with our need for certainty, predictability, and control.
  • Mental health improves by learning to navigate ambiguity and the unknown.
INSIGHT

Education Trained Workers, Not Humans

  • Modern education prepares children to be workers rather than full human beings.
  • Ancient paideia aimed to develop intellectual, emotional, spiritual and physical wholeness.
INSIGHT

Mind-Body Split Fueled Control Culture

  • The split between science and metaphysical meaning began long before industrialization and accelerated modern control narratives.
  • Descartes' mind-body divide contributed to devaluing inner, non-material aspects of life.
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