#77 Evolving Language by Embracing Paradox with Lisa Maroski

Nov 30, 2025

Lisa Maroski, an author known for her insights into language and paradox, explores how linguistic habits shape our worldview. She discusses the importance of embracing paradox to move beyond binary thinking, using the Mobius Strip as a metaphor for unity in diversity. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of language, culture, and environmental awareness, urging listeners to question assumptions and embrace relational action. Maroski emphasizes love as a vital connection in fostering understanding across diverse perspectives.

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INSIGHT

Language Shapes Either/Or Thinking

Our language habits push us into either/or thinking and obscure underlying unity.
Lisa Maroski argues that holding distinctions and their unity reveals more accurate, interconnected realities.

ADVICE

Use The Mobius Strip As A Mental Tool

Use the Mobius strip metaphor to hold opposites as one continuous relationship.
Stand back from local either/or views to perceive both distinctness and unity together.

INSIGHT

Words Aren't Enough Without Worldview

Language is embedded in culture and reflects worldview, not neutral fact.
Changing words alone won't shift perception unless the underlying cultural paradigm changes.

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This episode, hosted by philosopher Andrea Hiott, explores the concept of embracing paradox with Lisa Maroski, author of 'Embracing Paradox, Evolving Language.' The discussion delves into how our language separates concepts, leading to binary thinking, and how questioning and reexamining these linguistic habits can foster a deeper understanding of interconnectedness. Using the metaphor of the Mobius Strip, Lisa explains the importance of holding multiple truths simultaneously and the potential for transforming our worldview. They touch on various topics, including the influence of language on culture, the need for a new way of thinking to address global crises, and the role of love and trust in fostering connection. The conversation encourages listeners to see beyond binary choices and embrace a more integrated, kaleidoscopic approach to understanding and caring for the world.
www.lisamaroski.com

00:00 Introduction to Paradoxical Thinking
02:54 Welcome to Love and Philosophy
03:23 Exploring Language and Cognitive Boundaries
04:08 Introducing Lisa and Her Book
05:21 The Mobius Strip Metaphor
06:03 The Complexity of Language and Culture
26:20 Dynamic Processes and Biological Insights
28:48 The Existential Motivation for Change
32:15 Exploring New Ways of Being
33:54 Interconnectedness and Environmental Awareness
38:35 The Power of Questions
48:40 Learning from Different Perspectives
51:45 Language and Collective Change
58:27 Embracing Paradox and Wholeness
01:00:40 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendations

L.E. (Lisa) Maroski didn’t intend to become an editor, it just so happened that she was good at helping people say what they really wanted to say, not what they wrote. After years of doing that for others, she turned her trade on herself, publishing a novel, The One That Is Both, in 2006 and Embracing Paradox, Evolving Language in 2024. Both books derive from a deep desire for language to be able to “do more.” A third book that continues this theme is in development. Having studied philosophy and psychology but working in medical editing and writing, she considers herself a generalist, one who likes to make connections between ideas. An avid dancer, she balances mind with motion, lofty thoughts with high kicks. You might find her dancing tango somewhere…

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