Choose to be Curious

Join John L. Jackson, Jr., the Dean of the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania and an ethnographer with a passion for curiosity. He shares captivating insights about nurturing curiosity as a culture and its profound impact on personal growth. Jackson explores how curiosity deepens our understanding, fosters community, and connects personal passions to professional identities. He underscores the power of listening and engagement in enhancing empathy, while also playfully inviting listeners to think of creative analogies for curiosity.

Dive into the fascinating interplay between curiosity and choice. Explore deep philosophical questions about free will and how embracing choice can enrich life. Discover the impact of decision-making on relationships and daily interactions. The conversation highlights the 'yes and' mentality from improv theater, showing how curiosity can transform experiences. It's all about making intentional choices that define our true selves.

Asia Ferrin, a philosophy professor at American University, dives into the intriguing question of whether curiosity is truly a choice. She explores the connection between curiosity and moral philosophy, highlighting how our childhood views on fairness evolve into complex moral inquiries. The conversation touches on the balance between free will and determinism, emphasizing the impact of external factors on our choices. Ferrin also discusses the societal influences on curiosity and the importance of fostering supportive environments for it in education and personal growth.

In a delightful discussion, two professors dive into the multifaceted nature of curiosity in literature and life. They explore how curiosity shapes our interests and connections to culture. The conversation takes a surprising turn as they examine the origins of everyday items like remote controls, encouraging listeners to question perceptions and embrace new viewpoints. It's a celebration of curiosity’s power to enhance understanding and make life richer!

Barbara M. Benedict, a Professor of English at Trinity College and an expert in curiosity and collecting, shares her insights on the evolution of curiosity throughout history. She discusses its transformation from a vice to a celebrated virtue, particularly regarding women. The conversation dives into the relationship between literature, journalism, and the personal joys of collecting. Additionally, Larissa Leclair sheds light on her indie photobook library, emphasizing the emotional connections we forge through collecting and storytelling.

Dive into the intriguing world of questioning! Explore what really makes a question a question and learn how to enhance your inquiry skills. The discussion highlights the crucial role of questions in sparking curiosity and improving communication. Discover valuable techniques that empower you to ask better questions in various settings, especially in education. Get ready to transform your approach to curiosity!

In this engaging discussion, philosopher Lani Watson, who specializes in the art of questioning, dives deep into what defines a question. She highlights the distinction between linguistic definitions and everyday use. Watson shares insights from her groundbreaking survey, revealing public perceptions about questions in relatable contexts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of refining our questioning skills for better learning. With imaginative analogies, she also explores the depths of curiosity, inviting listeners to find their own unique comparisons.

Mike Morales, a retired LtCol USAF, White House Fellow, and former COO of Arena Labs, delves into the transformative power of curiosity as a connector in our lives. He shares how asking meaningful questions can combat loneliness, especially among military families, and enhance cross-cultural understanding. The conversation dives into the importance of embracing diverse perspectives, fostering genuine connections, and using curiosity as a tool for community building. Morales encourages listeners to engage with others openly and with intention.

Explore the power of curiosity as a tool for connection! Dive into personal stories that unveil family secrets and deepen bonds. Discover how thoughtful questions can bridge divides and uncover shared values. Enjoy a nostalgic journey through childhood puzzles that lead to fascinating discoveries about family history. This charming discussion invites listeners to embrace their own curiosities and connect with their roots.

Discover the art of asking better questions with insights from the Right Question Institute. Learn how empowering inquiry can transform conversations and lead to deeper understanding. Explore ways to nurture curiosity in children, fostering critical thinking and creative exploration. The discussion emphasizes creating a supportive environment for questioning, which can revolutionize how we engage with the world.