Author Robert Wright on Buddhism vs Stoicism

5 snips

Mar 31, 2021

In this discussion, Robert Wright, an acclaimed author and journalist known for his insightful works like "The Moral Animal" and "Why Buddhism Is True," sheds light on the interplay between Stoicism and Buddhism. They delve into the importance of civic engagement and the temptations of social media. The conversation navigates the balance between pursuit and contentment, emphasizing mindful resistance in political discourse. Wright also explores the Bodhisattva ideal and shares his journey in adapting his writing style, encouraging authenticity and connection in a digital age.

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ADVICE

Mindful Social Media Use

Practice mindfulness on social media.
Pay attention to your reactions and motivations before retweeting or engaging.

ADVICE

Darwin's Golden Rule

Document observations that contradict your beliefs, like Darwin did.
The human brain seeks to confirm its biases rather than finding the truth.

INSIGHT

The Unreliable Brain

The human brain isn't always a reliable friend in the pursuit of truth.
Cognitive dissonance illustrates how we double down on false beliefs when confronted with contradictory evidence.

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Ryan speaks to the author and journalist Robert Wright about the Stoic obligation to being involved in politics, staying creative while controlling your own destiny, the temptations and distractions of social media, and more.

Robert Wright is an author and journalist who has written five books including The Moral Animal and Why Buddhism Is True. He has also written for The Atlantic Monthly, The New Yorker, and The New York Times Magazine. His weekly newsletter Mindful Resistance is sent out every Saturday.

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