James P. Carse

James Carse, a renowned philosopher and author of "Finite and Infinite Games," shares profound insights into how we approach life strategies. He discusses the pivotal difference between finite and infinite games, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. Carse reflects on navigating crises with an infinite mindset, exploring the nature of belief and the need for open inquiry over dogmatism. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the continuing journey of personal discovery.

In this podcast, Nat interviews James P. Carse, author of Finite and Infinite Games. They discuss topics like self-imposed limits, the power of laws, the importance of playfulness in infinite games, the difference between power and strength, avoiding zero-sum thinking, and the contrasting attitudes towards nature as a machine or a garden. They also touch upon the power of stories and how they spread organically.

James Carse, Professor Emeritus at NYU and author of 'Finite and Infinite Games,' dives into the profound worlds of myth, play, and consciousness. He discusses the essential nature of questions over answers in teaching and critiques traditional belief as a barrier to deeper understanding. Carse distinguishes between finite games, which have defined rules and outcomes, and infinite play, which focuses on continual engagement. He emphasizes the overlapping nature of religions and suggests that myth invites endless exploration and storytelling, keeping the mystery alive in our lives.