Quillette Narrated

My sense is that Nietzsche is best understood as a radical individualist; one who insists passionately that our duty in life is to become what we are. But what kind of person is that?

The discussion dives into how labeling normal feelings as disorders can trap individuals in limiting narratives. Experts argue that normal emotional responses, like anxiety, shouldn't be medicalized. A therapist's case illustrates how reframing stress as a natural reaction can foster resilience. The conversation highlights the power of psychedelics in breaking unhelpful self-narratives and emphasizes that personal growth often comes from perspective shifts, rather than strict medical diagnoses.

Polygamy is a criminal offense throughout the Western world. Would making it legal be progress?

Like Miller, Orwell didn’t just focus on the “dirty-handkerchief side of life”—he repeatedly confessed to the dirty-handkerchief side of his own personality.

A nuclear engineer offers a compelling review of a blockbuster film, praising its cinematic qualities. He shares his personal ties to Los Alamos and evaluates the historical accuracy of key scientific moments depicted. Insights include debunking fears about atmospheric ignition and discussing the challenges of bomb engineering. The portrayal of women in science and the moral sentiments of project scientists are highlighted. He also critiques character representations and reflects on Oppenheimer's political stance amid the hydrogen bomb debate.

Delve into the bizarre connection between prominent literary figures and Scientology. Discover how Aldous Huxley and William S. Burroughs found themselves entangled in Hubbard's world, driven by personal trauma and curiosity. Uncover core concepts of Dianetics and how they influenced Huxley’s exploration of perception and Burroughs's innovative writing style. From secretive auditing sessions to the cult's manipulative language, this discussion sheds light on the uncomfortable intersection of artistic genius and a controversial ideology.

The assassination of Charlie Kirk shows how Discord, memes, and “online brainrot” may motivate disaffected youth like Tyler Robinson more than ideology.

The self-esteem movements that once deranged America’s school curricula have since deranged the realm of identity activism.

The Gaza aid-site controversy and a crisis of journalism by Gary Geipel.

In his 2000 memoir A Personal Odyssey, Sowell recounts a parable that was read to him as a young boy and which he never forgot.