The podcast delves into Ernest Becker's philosophy of science and explanations for strongman leaders, neuroses, mental illness, and sexual fetishes. They explore the existential paradox of being human and discuss political topics like Biden, debate, and Kamala Harris. The hosts express gratitude to supporters and discuss human desire for transcendence, fear of mortality, and the role of artists in confronting mortality and creating meaning in life.
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Quick takeaways
The human desire to merge with the cosmic process while also seeking individual uniqueness creates a conflict of existential value.
Becker emphasizes courage in facing existential dilemmas, critiquing attempts to evade anxiety through distractions or repression.
Artists, labeled as neurotic, display courage by creating new perspectives and confronting existential struggles through their work.
Deep dives
The Urge for Immortality and Individuality
Humans experience a paradoxical urge to merge with the cosmic process while also wanting to stand out as unique individuals. The desire to merge arises from a fear of isolation and a search for transcendent value, while the aspiration for uniqueness stems from a drive to be distinct. This conflict is seen in the struggle between wanting to be a part of something larger and seeking individuation and significance.
Facing Existential Anxiety and Neuroses
Becker delves into the human predicament of facing existential anxiety and neuroses. The failure to confront the central problem of the human condition leads to various forms of mental illness and problematic behaviors. He critiques attempts to repress or evade this anxiety through extremes such as hero projects, social norms, or substance abuse.
The Importance of Courage and Boredom in Daily Life
Becker emphasizes the necessity of courage in acknowledging and grappling with existential dilemmas. He contrasts tranquilizing oneself with trivial distractions to avoid confronting the deeper issues of life and death. Boredom and anxiety serve as subconscious prompts to seek meaning beyond the mundane, leading individuals to question their purpose and existence.
The Illusion of Romantic Relationships and Human Expectations
Romantic relationships are often held in high esteem as solutions to existential dread, but the podcast points out their potential to lead to disappointment. The speaker highlights how individuals may idealize their partners, fostering unrealistic expectations and profound disillusionment when faced with their partners' inevitable flaws. By emphasizing the fragility of human beauty, strength, and intelligence, the podcast suggests that overreliance on romantic relationships for cosmic reassurance can result in increased bitterness and recrimination.
The Artist's Courage in Facing Existential Dilemmas
The podcast delves into the concept of art as a courageous response to existential challenges. Artists are portrayed as individuals who venture beyond societal frameworks to create something new, thus offering a glimpse of immortality through their creative endeavors. Despite being labeled as a neurotic type, artists display courage by challenging conventional beliefs and embracing the inherent existential struggles. The work of art is depicted as a profound solution for the artist in confronting personal separateness and the quest for shared meaning, ultimately contributing to the collective human experience.
David and Tamler conclude their discussion of Ernest Becker’s The Denial of Death. We talk about Becker’s philosophy of science (does he have one?), his sweeping explanations for strongman leaders, neuroses, mental illness, sexual fetishes, and the refreshing absence of an answer or resolution to the existential paradox at the heart of being human. Plus, a special Pod Save the Wizards intro - we have a political gabfest about Biden, the infamous debate, Kamala Harris, and more…