Something You Should Know The Secret Story of Your Private Life & How to Make the Best Use of Your Time
17 snips
Aug 7, 2025 
Cultural historian Tiffany Jenkins, author of 'Strangers and Intimates', dives into the fascinating evolution of personal privacy, revealing how our modern expectations are a relatively new phenomenon. She discusses the historical perceptions of private life and the ongoing tension between public exposure and personal space. Joining her is Risa Williams, a psychotherapist who offers practical time management strategies, emphasizing the need to balance work and personal time. Together, they provide valuable insights for navigating today's fast-paced world.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Quiet Drowning Reality
- People usually drown quietly, unlike the dramatic flailing often shown in movies.
- Recognizing subtle signs can be lifesaving, especially during pool parties where most drownings occur.
Privacy As A New Idea
- The concept of a private life is a recent cultural invention and was once viewed as suspicious.
- Historically, privacy was considered necessary only for wrongdoers, promoting the idea that one should do nothing in private they wouldn't do publicly.
Evolution of Privacy Concepts
- Early privacy evolved from property rights and freedom from intrusion by rulers, notably restricting monarchs from entering homes.
- Philosophers like Hobbes revolutionized privacy by asserting thought is free, separating private thought from necessary public conformity.
