A Mug of Insights

003: Future of The Humanities, Reading as a Hobby and Tools for Finishing a Difficult Book

Aug 10, 2024

Join Jonathan Haidt, a leading author on psychology and morality; Rita Felski, a cultural critic and literary scholar; and Lydia Davis, an acclaimed short story writer, as they explore the future of humanities education in a digital landscape. They discuss how sharing knowledge online is reshaping perceptions and relevance. The trio also dives into strategies for tackling difficult books, offering insights on the importance of approach and mindset, whether for pleasure or project-based reading.

21:50

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Episode guests

Lydia Davis

Rita Felski

Jonathan Haidt

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Quick takeaways

The future of humanities is evolving towards online platforms that prioritize accessible education and meaningful discourse over traditional academic structures.

Cultivating a personal connection to literature enhances the reading experience, allowing readers to engage with texts more intimately and emotionally.

Deep dives

Navigating Academic Philosophy

Studying philosophy and humanities can sometimes feel like a futile endeavor, especially when students perceive a disconnect between academic pursuits and real-world application. The complexity of navigating academic environments often leads to frustration and disengagement, as students focus more on bureaucratic requirements than genuine understanding. While pursuing degrees in these fields can offer valuable experiences in research and networking, many struggle to find relevance in traditional academic settings, which may feel detached from contemporary issues. An increasing number of scholars are recognizing that meaningful insights can be gained outside of academia—through podcasts, literature, and other accessible forms of knowledge-sharing.