Lives Well Lived

Paul Bloom, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto and former Yale professor, brings fascinating insights into morality. He discusses how reason plays a crucial role in moral decisions, arguing against relying solely on emotions. The conversation dives into the complexities of moral judgments, revealing children’s inherent sense of morality and the influence of empathy. Bloom also distinguishes between fleeting pleasures and long-term happiness, exploring our emotional attachments to sentimental objects and their psychological significance.

Ximena Abogabir, a Chilean journalist and environmental activist, shares her journey advocating for sustainable development and environmental awareness. She emphasizes the significance of maintaining purpose in aging, challenging societal views on elderly retreat. The conversation reveals how older individuals can enhance workplace innovation and societal integration. Ximena also explores the importance of optimism and kindness in fostering happiness, alongside personal responsibility in combating climate change. Family connections and generational perspectives on current global challenges are also discussed.

Jonathan Haidt, a renowned social psychologist and author of notable bestsellers, dives deep into the impact of technology on youth mental health, arguing that smartphones and overprotective parenting have reshaped childhood. He explores the psychological divides in American political behavior, analyzing how deeply held values can misinterpret each side. Haidt addresses the social media giants' accountability and offers solutions to foster community and resilience among younger generations, emphasizing the need for nurturing conditions that promote human flourishing.

A.J. Jacobs, an author and humorist known for his immersive year-long experiments, shares the quirks of his unique lifestyle as a 'human guinea pig.' He dives into the wild ride of living by biblical rules and channeling the Founding Fathers. With a comedic twist, he reflects on radical honesty, the transformative power of gratitude, and the delicate balance between personal morality and societal duties. Jacobs also discusses insights gained from his health experiments and the implications of democracy, making for an enlightening and entertaining conversation.

Matthieu Ricard, often called the 'world's happiest man,' is a French-Nepalese author, photographer, and Buddhist monk. He shares profound insights on the difference between true happiness and fleeting pleasure, emphasizing that genuine joy comes from altruism and compassion. Ricard discusses his life in Nepal, rigorous meditation, and the interconnectedness of all beings. He explores the significance of self-acceptance, moments of beauty in daily life, and the role of compassion in enhancing our collective well-being, advocating for a shift towards a more caring society.

Frances Kissling, a leading advocate in religion and reproductive health, shares her compelling journey from convent life to activism. She discusses the challenges of promoting progressive reproductive rights within the Catholic community, reflecting on her Polish heritage and the influences that shaped her views. The conversation navigates the complexities of moral beliefs and women’s rights, critiques coercive reproductive policies, and emphasizes the need for compassion in advocacy. Through personal anecdotes, Kissling inspires joy and growth in activism.

Economist Tyler Cowen dives into the possibilities of alien visits, AI's impact on society, climate change, and animal welfare. He shares his daily routine, thoughts on utilitarianism, religion, and the importance of seeking knowledge for a better world.

Dui Toledo is in conversation with Peter & Kasia to discuss his personal philosophy on living a good life, which includes balancing health, skill development, meaningful relationships, and service to others. Dui highlights his 105-hour rule to manage time efficiently, the importance of deliberate learning, and his perspectives on ethics, morality, and living a life well-lived.Learn more about DuiIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Grant, CEO of the Fistula Foundation, discusses the impact of obstetric fistula in low-resource settings, challenges in aid effectiveness, and the transformative power of fistula surgery. She shares insights on transitioning from advertising to charity work, empowering women through surgery, and balancing emotions with data in philanthropy.

Author and journalist Robert Wright joins Peter & Kasia to discuss evolutionary explanations for altruism, societal norms influenced by sexual psychology, ethical challenges of AI, and the concept of moral realism. They explore the role of technology in history and non-zero-sum interactions. Delving into the idea of being judged by a higher power, they touch on living a fulfilling life and meditation retreats.