Making Sense with Sam Harris #203 — A Conversation with Caitlin Flanagan
May 13, 2020
Caitlin Flanagan, a renowned writer for The Atlantic, speaks candidly about her personal battle with cancer and the emotional turmoil it brings. She reflects on the nuances of public apologies and the complexities of forgiveness in today’s society. Discussing the #MeToo movement, Flanagan explores modern feminism and its implications. The conversation also touches on navigating health challenges during the pandemic, encouraging a deeper understanding of human connections amid public discourse and personal hardships.
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Cancer Recurrence
- After a period of remission, Flanagan faced a devastating recurrence at age 50, with cancer spreading to her liver, lungs, and chest wall.
- This experience was particularly challenging as her children were only ten years old at the time.
Career and Cancer
- Flanagan describes her professional life as a writer for The Atlantic during her cancer journey.
- She received a significant book deal around the same time as her initial diagnosis.
Second Opinion
- Flanagan initially sought treatment at a private practice but was advised by a nurse to get a second opinion.
- This led her to UCLA, where she received more effective treatment for her specific type of cancer.