Rebecca Goldstein

In this engaging discussion, philosopher and author Rebecca Goldstein dives into the concept of 'mattering'—the fundamental human need to feel significant. She explores how mattering underpins happiness, ambition, and even depression, linking unmet desires for significance to broader societal issues like polarization and extremism. Goldstein presents strategies for realizing one's mattering, illustrates with stories like that of Scott Joplin, and offers advice for individuals struggling to find their sense of worth. A thought-provoking conversation on what it truly means to matter!

In this engaging discussion, philosopher Rebecca Goldstein, a MacArthur Fellowship recipient, delves into her book, The Mattering Instinct. She explores our intrinsic need to feel that our lives have significance. Goldstein distinguishes between self-mattering and the deeper desire for objective validation. She examines how parenting and social media impact our sense of mattering and introduces her intriguing 'mattering map' with archetypes like heroic strivers. The conversation also touches on the relationship between depression and our search for meaning.

Rebecca Goldstein, a brilliant philosopher and novelist known for her works bridging literature and philosophy, dives deep into the human need for significance. She discusses how this 'mattering instinct' is essential to our dignity but can also lead to destructive behaviors. Goldstein outlines four primary ways people seek significance and explores the fine line between healthy and unhealthy mattering. They delve into the ethics of our desires for recognition and how competition can spur societal benefits despite personal struggles.

Rebecca Goldstein, a philosopher and novelist, discusses atheism, Spinoza, and the meaning of life without God. Topics include her novel, transitioning from Judaism to atheism, arguments against God's existence, and the relevance of Spinoza's philosophy. The conversation touches on morality, physics, consciousness, panpsychism, and the quest for significance in a vast universe.

Rebecca Goldstein, an American philosopher, talks about her book Betraying Spinoza: The Renegade Jew Who Gave Us Modernity. The podcast explores Spinoza's excommunication, his challenge to religion, and his influence on Western philosophy. It also discusses the concept of excommunication and Jewish identity, as well as Spinoza's attempt to transcend religious affiliation.