Edward Slingerland, a philosopher and religious studies scholar at the University of British Columbia, dives into ancient Chinese philosophies like Confucianism and Daoism. They explore 'wu wei,' or effortless action, connecting it to modern concepts like flow. Slingerland contrasts the structured ethics of Confucius with Lao Tzu's spontaneity, discussing how these ideas influence creativity, social roles, and individual identity. The conversation also highlights the fascinating parallels between ancient wisdom and contemporary psychology.

This week we talk to Edward Slingerland about trying not to tryEdward Slingerland is a Professor of Asian Studies and Canada Research Chair in Chinese Thought and Embodied Cognition at the University of British Columbia, and was educated at Princeton, Stanford and the University of California, Berkeley. His areas of specialty include Chinese thought, comparative religion, cognitive science, and the relationship between the sciences and the humanities. In addition to over twenty academic journal articles in a range of fields, he has written several scholarly books, including What Science Offers the Humanities and a translation of the Analects of Confucius. His first book for a popular audience is called Trying Not to Try: Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity In This Interview Ted and I Discuss...The One You Feed parable.Trying not to try.The tension of trying to relax.The conscious mind vs the unconscious mind.The ancient secrets of Wu Wei.For more show notes visit our website  Some of our most popular interviews that you might also enjoy:Dan HarrisMaria PopovaTodd Henry- author of Die EmptyRandy Scott HydeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Authors Edward Slingerland and Susan Dominus explore the historical, societal, and health impacts of alcohol consumption. They delve into the relationship between alcohol, agriculture, and creativity, discussing its influence on trust, creativity, and social bonds. The podcast also examines the role of alcohol in fostering adult friendships, navigating personal dynamics, and making conscious choices around drinking.

University Scholar and Professor of Philosophy, Edward Slingerland, discusses the paradox of effortless action, Chinese philosophy, benefits of alcohol, and more. Topics include wu-wei, flow, technology's impact, Confucianism, Daoism success, alcohol's evolutionary origins, psychedelics, honesty, and the importance of nature.

Edward Slingerland, a professor and philosophical hedonist, discusses how our taste for alcohol has shaped civilization and improved our social, creative, and pleasurable lives. Topics include the origins of civilization and beer, the complex relationship with alcohol, alcohol's role in enhancing creativity, the influence of alcohol on bar culture, and the use of alcohol to enhance relationships. The podcast also explores the power of alcohol in dancing and features a discussion on a captivating book.