The Gray Area with Sean Illing

Failing towards Utopia

Jun 21, 2019
Avery Trufelman, host of the podcast "Nice Try," dives into historical attempts at creating utopia, addressing the complexities behind failed ideals. She questions the common belief that failure always fuels growth, especially in Silicon Valley. Avery explores Oneida's rich legacy in American dining and the emotional ties of tableware. The conversation also touches on John Humphrey Noyes and his radical views on community and spirituality, plus the controversial 'complex marriage' model that sparked scandal in the 1840s.
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INSIGHT

Utopia in Times of Distress

  • In times of distress, people turn to utopian ideals.
  • They search for an escape from the constraints of their current world.
ANECDOTE

Biosphere 2: A Utopian Parable

  • Avery Trufelman's favorite utopia from the season is Biosphere 2.
  • It involves climate change, geodesic domes, and Steve Bannon.
INSIGHT

Silicon Valley's Flawed Definition of Failure

  • Silicon Valley's definition of failure is flawed.
  • It often overlooks the possibility of true, unproductive failure.
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