Very Bad Wizards

Episode 288: The Despised Foot (The Denial of Death Pt. 2)

Jul 9, 2024

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.

01:30:05

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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.

Courage as a Solution to Human Neuroses

02:00

Human Meaning vs. Divine Drama

01:43

Tranquilizing with the Trivial

02:04

Intro

2min

Reflections on Patriotism and Political Observations

16min

Discussion on a Public Figure's Awkward Attempt at Code-Switching

2min

Evaluation of Political Figures

4min

Continuation of a Discussion on 'The Denial of Death' with Gratitude to Supporters

4min

Exploring Human Desire for Transcendence and Fear of Mortality

16min

Exploring the Twin Paradox of Merging and Independence

21min

The Role of Artists in Confronting Mortality

9min

The Role of Culture and Rituals in Addressing Existential Problems

12min

10.

Exploring Transvestism and Fetish Objects

5min

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…

The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker [amazon.com affiliate link]

The Denial of Death [wikipedia.org]

Let us know where we should hold our 300th episode listener meet-up [surveymonkey.com]