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The Jim Rutt Show

Currents 012: Andrew Taggart on Narcissism, Culture & Dying

Sep 23, 2020
Andrew Taggart, philosopher and expert on narcissism and psychotherapeutic culture, talks to Jim about philosophy, the impacts of our psychotherapeutic culture, narcissism, community living, dying well, and more. They discuss the connection between narcissism and cultural trends, rebuilding communities and prioritizing families, the correlation between therapists per capita and population density, and the potential for change in the current crisis.
59:18
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Episode guests

Andrew Taggart

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Non-dualism and questioning fundamental aspects of the good life and reality through philosophical conversations.
  • The rise of narcissism due to urbanization, the elevation of work, and the preoccupation with introspection and self-expression.

Deep dives

The Importance of Non-Dualism and Practical Philosophy

In this podcast episode, Andrew Taggart discusses the concept of non-dualism, which suggests that there is one reality and we are that one reality. He explains that non-dualism is grounded in Eastern traditions like Zen Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta. Andrew emphasizes the significance of questioning fundamental aspects of the good life and reality through philosophical conversations with others. He critiques the current institutionalization of philosophy, stating that it fails to address meaningful questions that everyday individuals grapple with. Andrew also explores the rise of narcissism in modern society, which he attributes to the erosion of deep personal connections, a lack of contemplative life, and an excessive focus on interior states and psychotherapeutic culture.

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