In this episode, Ryan Bush, author of Designing the Mind and Become Who You Are, discusses understanding self-esteem and the positive case for depression. They also delve into the integration of philosophy and design thinking, living by one's own values, the challenges of global economic systems, the pursuit of happiness, the importance of integrity, having a map and writing to process ideas, the impact of AI on human virtues, and the importance of asking questions and having two-way conversations.
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Quick takeaways
Self-esteem is influenced by one's own agreement with others' opinions of them.
Cultivating a culture that promotes critical thinking and evidence-based approaches can help address societal challenges.
Finding happiness is about enjoying the ongoing process and aligning actions with personal virtues and values.
Living with integrity, even if it means facing criticism, brings a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Deep dives
Influential Thinkers and Books
Some of the influential thinkers and books for me include the Tao Te Ching, Nietzsche, and Maslow. I have a reading list on Goodreads with around 400-500 books in various fields. These include ancient philosophy, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, among others.
Effects of Stoicism and Self-Esteem
Stoicism has helped in viewing the world from a rational perspective and questioning one's own thoughts and beliefs. Self-esteem is influenced by one's own agreement with others' opinions of them. It is important to focus on one's own admiration and values, rather than seeking approval from others. Cognitive restructuring can be helpful in challenging distorted beliefs and biases.
Challenges in Politics and Society
Addressing societal challenges and bridging gaps in political views can be difficult. Cultivating a culture that promotes critical thinking and evidence-based approaches can be helpful. However, the internet and economic systems centered around capital and profit pose significant challenges. Education and creating institutions focused on improving mental faculties can help foster better thinkers and citizens.
Finding Happiness in the Process
Finding happiness is not about reaching a specific outcome or possession, but rather enjoying the ongoing process itself. Emphasizing the journey and continually engaging in activities aligned with personal virtues and values can lead to greater satisfaction. Goals and accomplishments alone do not bring lasting happiness, but focusing on the present and aligning actions with personal virtues can lead to fulfillment.
The Importance of Integrity and Living by Your Principles
Integrity is emphasized as the speaker discusses the significance of walking the walk and talking the talk. Living according to your principles is crucial, even if it means facing criticism or disapproval from others. While it is important not to harm others, being true to yourself and living with integrity brings a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
The Psychological Function of Religion and Building a Comprehensive System
Religion has historically served as a way to explain the world and provide a moral compass. However, the podcast explores the need for an updated system that aligns with our current understanding of science and offers psychological benefits. By developing a comprehensive system that encourages virtues and guides individuals and society, it is possible to navigate life's challenges and pursue a good and healthy existence.
Challenging Beliefs, Motivations, and Identity
Beliefs and political views often stem from our social ties, location, and pre-existing beliefs, rather than objective truth. The podcast highlights the difficulty of changing one's mind when confronted with opposing evidence, and the role our identity plays in defending our beliefs. Challenging our motivations and understanding our biases can lead to more open-mindedness and possibly reevaluating our beliefs in light of new information.
Ryan Bush is the author of Designing the Mind and Become Who You Are. We sat down and had an interesting conversation about a understanding self esteem and the positive case for depression.