Talk Doesn't Cook Rice

John and Danny discuss hope in pessimistic times, weaving together thoughts on Adam Curtis’ new documentary, Heidegger’s philosophy, Ernst Bloch’s philosophy of hope, Albert Camus’s absurdism, and the haunting optimism of the best single series of TV in history, True Detective.

John and Danny discuss the captivating concept of syntropy, exploring how energy drives order from chaos in life’s cosmic dance. Drawing from complexity science and thinkers like Albert Szent-Györgyi, Ray Peat, Ervin Laszlo, and Ulisse Di Corpo, we unpack syntropy’s role in creating structure, from a single cell to entire societies, and share practical ways to tip the balance toward coherence in your own life.

John and Danny discuss Dr Iain McGilchrist's brilliant 2009 book, The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World.We explore the differences between the right and left hemispheres of the brain, how left hemisphere overreach may be at the heart of many modern maladies, and what we might do to ensure better balance.

John and Danny discuss Corey Keyes’ concept of languishing, which involves low mental health, marked by a lack of interest, motivation, and feelings of emptiness. We examine how languishing differs from flourishing and depression, consider its long-term effects, and outline the 5 behavioural vitamins essential for overcoming it. Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down Get our book ‘BEING WELL’ Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28

John and Danny discuss Byung-Chul Han’s insightful book, The Disappearance of Rituals. We examine the rise of narcissism and its impact on diminishing the importance of rituals, exploring the consequences of this decline on contemporary life.Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28

Dive into the critique of modern achievement culture, where positivity often leads to exhaustion and a sense of emptiness. Explore the pressures of self-improvement and how they can fuel burnout. The discussion touches on the commercialization of personal experiences and the illusion of authenticity in the age of social media. Gain insights on breaking free from societal expectations and embracing spontaneity, celebrating the moments of doing absolutely nothing. Comedian Micky Flanagan also brings humor to the conversation!

John and Danny discuss Spiral Dynamics, a psychological framework that describes how human values and worldviews change over time in response to life conditions and experiences. We outline the main stages of the spiral, from basic survival instincts to complex systems thinking, and consider how they shape our behavior, culture, and society. We also examine the benefits and challenges of each stage, how to communicate and collaborate with people who are at different levels of the spiral, and how to apply them to our personal and professional lives.Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28

John and Danny discuss the fascinating world of personality. We unravel the layers that make us who we are, exploring the influence of genetics, environment, and experience. We also explore some of the common models you can use to reflect on your personal traits and figure out what makes you tick.Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28

John and Danny discuss the notion of 'the self' and the eternal question of what makes a person the same person over time. We explore the great Scottish philosopher David Hume's perspective, his skepticism about the the concept of a continuous identity, and draw parallels with the concept of personality.Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28

John and Danny discuss nostalgia, a complex emotion described as "a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past." We examine its different types, exploring how it can wield both positive and negative influences, and ponder whether it has become a more prominent and powerful force than ever before.Intro/Outro Music: The Eternal Now by Maze 28