Podcast Summary
Discussing Calvinism and its impact on literature with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilyn Robinson: Marilyn Robinson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, shares her fascination with Calvinism and its influence on her work, which explores themes of race, democracy, and fellowship, offering a sense of wonder and belief in the world's promise.
Wise is a financial service that helps manage money in different currencies, offering real-time mid market exchange rates and no hidden fees. It's a convenient solution for sending money internationally and eliminating the need for airport currency exchange desks. Wise has 16 million customers worldwide and is known for its simplicity and transparency. Marilyn Robinson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, was a guest on the podcast, discussing her attraction to Calvinism and its impact on her work. She found Calvin's theology deeply connected to Moby Dick and was drawn to his brilliance and humanity. Robinson's books, known for their political and social commentary, explore themes of race, democracy, and fellowship. Her work, despite its serious themes, offers a sense of wonder and belief in the world's promise.
Predestination, Time, and Causality: Many believe in predestination, but also recognize the ethical significance of human choices. Our limited understanding of time and causality leads to the belief in predestination, but reality may be more complex than we can articulate.
The concept of predestination, which raises questions about free will and determinism, is based on a limited understanding of time and causality. According to the speaker, many theologians, including Augustine and Aquinas, have believed in predestination, but they also believed in the ethical significance of human choices. The speaker argues that our primitive notions of time and causality make us assume a necessary chain of causality, leading to the belief in predestination. However, we don't fully understand these concepts, and reality itself may be something we can't articulate well. The speaker suggests that HBO's The Watchmen explores these ideas, and he shares how a footnote about the moon in an old Jonathan Edwards essay influenced his perspective on reality. As a college student, he was deeply affected by determinist models of human behavior and psychology but found that these ideas were not exclusive to religious tradition. Instead, he noticed that secular philosophies also made the same mistakes. The footnote about the moon in Edwards' essay challenged his understanding of the world and helped shape his view on reality.
The renewal of reality challenges our perception: Edwards' idea of reality's renewal questions the existence of free will and newness in reality, while our perception lagging or anticipating events blurs the line between perception and reality
Our perception of reality may not accurately represent the true nature of the world around us. Edwards' idea that reality is renewed moment to moment challenges the notion of a causally determined universe, raising questions about the existence of free will and the possibility of newness in reality. The argument that we may not have evolved to perceive reality as it is adds another layer to this complexity. If our impressions of reality are indeed lagging or anticipating the actual events, it further blurs the lines between what we perceive and what truly exists. These ideas, as presented by Edwards and explored in both fiction and non-fiction, invite us to consider the limitations of our perception and the profound mysteries that lie beyond.
The natural world and human consciousness defy simple explanations: The speaker highlights the complexity and indeterminacy of the natural world and human consciousness, challenging deterministic models of evolution, and advocates for humility, respect for diverse perspectives, and an open-minded approach to understanding reality.
The speaker expresses a deep sense of complexity and indeterminacy in the natural world and human consciousness, which challenges the deterministic model of evolution. He suggests that there are many aspects of reality that are difficult to reconcile with an evolutionary perspective and that our understanding of the world is limited and fragmentary. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of humility and respect for different perspectives, even if they seem contradictory or beyond our comprehension. He advocates for a more open-minded and indeterminate approach to understanding the world, recognizing that there are some truths and values that may be beyond human understanding. The speaker's religious tradition informs his perspective by providing a framework for making decisions and respecting the impulse of religion as a step beyond reductionist models of reality.
The Importance of Attention and Presence in Business and Life: Shopify and Wise offer practical solutions for businesses and individuals, but also encourage a mindset of being fully present and engaged in the moment, whether managing an e-commerce platform, sending money internationally, or observing the world around us.
Shopify and Wise are valuable tools for businesses and individuals looking to simplify their operations, whether it's managing an e-commerce platform, sending money across borders, or just paying attention to the world around us. Shopify offers a flexible solution for businesses at any stage, with features like Shopify Magic, a helpful AI, and the ability to manage multiple currencies. Wise, on the other hand, makes international money transfers easy and hassle-free, with real-time exchange rates and no hidden fees. But beyond these practical applications, there's a deeper theme that emerges from the conversation: the importance of paying attention and being present in the moment. The author of "Gilead" reflects on the importance of cultivating this quality of attention, whether it's through observing the development of young children, engaging in deep writing, or interacting with the world around us. This idea of being fully present and engaged is a powerful one, and it's a theme that resonates throughout the discussion of both Shopify and Wise. So whether you're looking to streamline your business operations or simply deepen your connection to the world, these tools and this mindset offer valuable insights and opportunities for growth.
Marilynne Robinson's Self-Imposed Sensory Deprivation in France: Through solitude and introspection, Robinson discovered the power of creativity and expanded her communication skills. In fiction and non-fiction, she emphasizes the importance of research and thinking.
Marilynne Robinson, a writer, discovered the power of introspection and creativity through a self-imposed sensory deprivation in France. This experience allowed her to tap into her subconscious and generate vivid, visual images. She encourages people to recognize their complexities and expand their perception and communication skills. The writing processes for fiction and non-fiction differ significantly for Robinson. In non-fiction, she constructs arguments, while in fiction, she aims to create self-sufficient narratives. Research and thinking play a crucial role in both forms, but they contribute differently to the final product. Robinson also shares that her personal experience with loneliness has been a source of inspiration and a defining aspect of her family culture.
The Complexities of Loneliness and Solitude: Recognize the differences between loneliness and solitude, challenge assumptions, and find joy in solitude as a source of clarity and personal growth.
Loneliness and solitude are not the same, and both can hold different meanings for individuals. While loneliness can be a negative experience, solitude can be a choice and a source of joy and clarity. The speaker values solitude deeply, but recognizes that it is a privilege to have the resources to enjoy it. She also acknowledges shared false assumptions and flawed conclusions, such as the belief in the superiority of American English or the excellence of the American educational system, which can go unchallenged due to their widespread acceptance. The speaker encourages reflection on these assumptions and finding the music in one's own voice. Additionally, the speaker shares that she has only come to appreciate the value of solitude as an adult and as a parent. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities of emotions like loneliness and solitude, and the importance of examining our shared beliefs.
Undervaluing American Universities: Despite being world-class institutions, American universities face budget cuts and devaluation due to public neglect and the prioritization of competitive value over education's intrinsic worth.
The value and importance of American universities are often undervalued and neglected, despite being some of the best educational institutions in the world. This leaves them vulnerable to budget cuts and devaluation. The speaker expresses disappointment in the public's failure to recognize and invest in these institutions, which are highly sought after by people around the world. Additionally, the speaker criticizes the prevalent ideology that everything, including education, should be measured by its competitive value or potential for financial gain, which can lead to a focus on STEM fields and away from humanities. The speaker also laments the current state of philosophy in universities, which has become focused on abstract, meaningless debates rather than addressing important questions about society and individuals' obligations to each other.
The impact of philosophies on our lives and society: Philosophies shape our society and choices, and the utilitarian focus on education and economic growth has led to a devaluation of education and other valuable aspects of civilization.
Philosophy matters in our lives, as it shapes the structures of our society and influences our choices. We live in a world where philosophies like survival of the fittest have significant consequences, and it's crucial to discuss and critique them. Education, for instance, is not just a means to an end but a valuable gift that enriches our lives. The utilitarianism that has entered our thinking about education and other aspects of civilization is a destructive and sad movement, reducing the value of anything that doesn't directly contribute to economic growth. We are a rich society, yet we've betrayed the idea of what previous generations would have done with our riches, leading to an increase in work hours rather than a decrease. The loss of the value of education and other aspects of civilization is a values question that we need to address.
The Complexity and Potential of the Human Being: We must balance personal growth and social responsibility to create a humane and just society.
Our society has lost sight of the profound complexity and potential of the human being. The educational systems and structures built in the past were designed to nurture and discover the brilliance within each individual. However, we now prioritize crude productivity over personal growth and the potential for greatness within each person. The character of the old prophet in Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead" serves as a reminder of the moral challenge of enjoying wealth and comfort in a world with so much injustice and deprivation. It's a hard question to answer, but perhaps finding a balance between personal growth and social responsibility is the key to creating a humane and just society.
The Complexity of Human History: Recognizing past societal norms as insane or immoral doesn't make current practices any less subject to future judgment.
Throughout history, societies have held beliefs and enacted policies that may seem insane or immoral to us now. From slavery and denying education to certain groups, to the acceptance of extreme wealth inequality and the mistreatment of animals on an industrial scale, these practices were once considered normal. However, as the speaker points out, looking back with modern perspectives, it can be easy to judge those who lived in these times. Yet, we must also recognize that our own society and actions may be judged similarly in the future. The speaker expresses concern about current issues like wealth inequality and animal agriculture, as well as the impact of climate change on future generations. Ultimately, history serves as a reminder of the wide range of human behavior and the importance of questioning societal norms.
Recognizing the complexities of history and our role in it: Understanding historical context and personal biases are essential for personal and societal growth in a democratic society
History, whether it's from the past or the present, is full of complexities and human flaws that are often overlooked. We have a tendency to view history as a story that doesn't apply to us or to believe that we have evolved beyond the actions of the past. However, recognizing our own potential for delusion and understanding the historical context of our actions is crucial for personal and societal growth. Democracy, a cornerstone of American values, means equality based on the sanctity of the individual person. Its practice demands active engagement, questioning biases, and respecting the dignity of all people, regardless of differences. History, as a story, serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the importance of continuous self-reflection and growth.
Belief in equal worth fuels democracy: Democracy thrives on assuming good intentions and valuing each person's worth, fostering dialogue and understanding, even amidst disagreements and nonnegotiable issues.
Every person holds an inherent value and sanctity, rooted in our shared creation and the complexity of human nature. This belief in equal worth is the foundation of democracy, enabling us to interact with one another in good faith and build consensus. Assuming good intentions in others, even when disagreeing, is crucial for maintaining a democratic culture and fostering understanding. However, acknowledging the existence of nonnegotiable issues doesn't mean we can't strive for dialogue and compromise. The current political climate presents challenges, but it's essential to remember that our democratic practices are a model for the world and that the potential for good in a democracy is vast. By honoring one another and working towards understanding, we can create a joyful and effective democratic society.
Maintaining democratic practices with non-adherent figures: Respect and ethical behavior are crucial in maintaining democratic practices, even when dealing with those who don't adhere to them. Practice courtesy, generosity, and be the kind of citizen others believe we are.
Some individuals in power may not operate within the democratic construct and may not have a clear political agenda. Instead, they might exploit their roles for personal gain. This raises profound questions about how to maintain democratic practices when key figures do not adhere to them. The answer lies in practicing courtesy, generosity, ethical soundness, and being the kind of citizen others believe we are. It's essential to respect ourselves and extend that respect to others, even when participating in democracy goes beyond casting a ballot. As for book recommendations, the speaker mentions Emily Dickinson for her poetic wisdom, The Birdman of Alcatraz for its exploration of individual rights versus societal norms, and they invite the audience to share their own influential reads.
The complex issue of shaping individuals to conform to societal norms: Exploring the historical roots of penology and the need for reform through literature like Marilynne Robinson's 'Jack'.
The question of how much we should shape individuals to conform to societal norms, even when it goes against their inclinations, is a complex issue with deep historical roots. This was explored in the context of penology during a period of American self-criticism, leading to solutions that were perceived as inhumane, despite efforts to improve prisoners' living conditions. Marilynne Robinson, in her book "Jack," offers an allegory of this problem and the need for reform. Amidst the chaos of the election month, immersing oneself in literature like Robinson's can serve as a refreshing tonic. Robinson's new book, "Jack," is a testament to her storytelling abilities. I'd also like to acknowledge the contributions of Roshi Kharma for researching, and Jackson Bierfeld for engineering this Vox Media podcast production.
