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KQED's Forum

Mark Lilla on the Power of Ignorance

Jan 2, 2025
Mark Lilla, a Columbia University professor and author of "Ignorance and Bliss: On Wanting Not to Know," dives into the fascinating tension between our desire to know and our instinct to remain blissfully ignorant. He discusses the psychological burden of constant news consumption and the allure of willful ignorance, questioning how it affects democracy today. Lilla explores the delicate balance of nurturing childhood innocence while also imparting essential knowledge, ultimately advocating for curiosity and emotional well-being in navigating our complex world.
57:43

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Quick takeaways

  • Humans inherently grapple with the dual desires to know and avoid uncomfortable truths, reflecting a struggle with modern information overload.
  • Preparing younger generations for the complexities of reality is crucial, as shielding them from knowledge fosters unhelpful misconceptions about innocence.

Deep dives

The Human Dilemma of Knowledge and Ignorance

Humans experience a persistent internal conflict between the desire to know and the inclination to turn away from unpleasant realities. This struggle reflects a broader existential crisis fueled by the overwhelming influx of information and media coverage on global issues. Individuals often grapple with feelings of powerlessness and moral responsibility, leading them to question their complicity in societal challenges, such as environmental degradation. This conflict introduces what the speaker identifies as the 'will to ignorance,' where the avoidance of knowledge can stem from self-preservation and emotional exhaustion.

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