Sean Illing talks with psychologist Paul Bloom about his new book The Sweet Spot, and whether it's necessary to experience suffering in order to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. They discuss the rich philosophical history of the question: what does it mean to be happy? They also talk about why some people are drawn to scary movies, whether or not to plug ... Show More
Today
Of course you're anxious
We use the word “anxiety” to describe stress, dread, worry, panic, even vibes. Which just goes to show: We really don’t know what anxiety is, or where it comes from, or what we’re supposed to do with it. Today’s guest is philosopher Samir Chopra, author of Anxiety: A Philosophica ... Show More
41m 54s
Feb 23
Why mindfulness got weird
Mindfulness is everywhere now, which is kind of weird. What started as a countercultural practice has become a productivity hack and a billion-dollar app ecosystem. On one level, it’s great that more people are meditating. But somewhere along the way, the whole thing got flattene ... Show More
42m 17s
Jan 2021
How to Stop Chasing Happiness and Make a Meaningful Life Instead
Welcome to The Academic Life. You are smart and capable, but you aren’t an island, and neither are we. So we reached across our mentor network to bring you podcasts on everything from how to finish that project, to how to take care of your beautiful mind. Wish we’d bring in an ex ... Show More
49m 19s
Sep 2022
#295 — Philosophy and the Good Life
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Harris speaks to Kieran Setiya about the relevance of philosophy to living a good life. They discuss the existence of objective moral truths, being happy vs living well, our response to grief, the difference between "telic" and "atelic" acti ... Show More
44m 17s
Dec 2023
TOWS Special: Finding Happiness
<p>Original Air Date: December 20, 1988</p><p>Three happiness experts share their secrets to living a joyful life. Featured guests include Dr. Paul Pearsall, a neuropsychologist and New York Times best-selling author of Super Joy; Robert Fulghum, a minister and author of New York ... Show More
36m 55s
May 2022
Massimo Pigliucci on How to Live a Happy Life
Massimo Pigliucci is a Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York, former co-host of the Rationally Speaking Podcast, and former editor in chief for the online magazine Scientia Salon. His research interests include the philosophy of science, the relationship between ... Show More
1h 2m
Jun 2024
#372 — Life & Work
<p>Sam Harris speaks with George Saunders about his creative process. They discuss George's involvement with Buddhism, the importance of kindness, psychedelics, writing as a practice, the work of Raymond Carver, the problem of social media, our current political moment, the role ... Show More
41m 32s