Question everything... that's a key insight from the great Greek philosopher Socrates. We may think we know ourselves and what makes us happy... but that's not always true.  Yale professor Tamar Gendler says that by harnessing our "inner Socrates" we can ask ourselves why we think or feel certain things. We might then find that deeply-held convictions that money or status or accolades are a reliable route to happiness aren't correct, and can then start to pursue the things that might really make us happier.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tamar Gendler, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Yale University, discusses the tension between our animal and intellectual nature, defining concepts like virtue and morality, the relationship between ancient Greek philosophy and Buddhism, and how she applies these principles to her own life. Exploring the wisdom of ancient philosophers, the podcast offers insights on eudaimonia, understanding human nature, self-knowledge, misconceptions about happiness, habits, and applying Epictetus' teachings.

Dr. Tamar Gendler, a psychology professor at Yale University, joins Dr. Laurie Santos to discuss the challenges of applying happiness science in their own lives. They explore the power of friendship in combating perfectionism, perspective-taking for self-compassion, understanding stress perception, productivity, and John Stuart Mill's moral theory. The conversation includes insights on confiding in friends, rejuvenating effects of spending time with loved ones, and developing habits for self-kindness.

Join Sean Carroll, a physicist and cosmologist from Johns Hopkins, Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist known for her work on mindfulness, and Tamar Gendler, Yale's philosophy and cognitive science expert, as they dive deep into the enigma of consciousness. They challenge if science can ever truly unravel subjective experience and explore the philosophical nuances of materialism and dualism. The discussion also tackles external world skepticism and the fascinating mind-body connection, highlighting how evolving insights can impact our understanding of reality.

Join Sean Carroll, a renowned physicist and podcast host, Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist and mindfulness expert, and Tamar Gendler, Yale’s philosophy dean. They dive into the limits of science in addressing consciousness. The trio debates how our language shapes reality and influences perceptions, particularly around mental experiences and chronic conditions. They tackle the dualism versus monism debate, questioning if materialism can truly capture the essence of our thoughts and feelings, all while pondering the profound connection between mind and body.