But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids How do we know life is not a dream?
Mar 6, 2026
Scott Hershovitz, a philosophy and law professor at the University of Michigan who writes about talking philosophy with kids, tackles big existential questions. He explains what philosophy is and why kids' wonder matters. He explores purpose, mortality, dreams vs. reality, sadness and love, and why adults seem distracted from big questions.
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We Make Our Own Meaning
- Scott Hershovitz distinguishes finding meaning from making meaning, arguing life's purpose may not be given but chosen.
- He lists relationships, work (doctor, firefighter), and art as concrete ways people create personal meaning.
Death Helps Shape Meaningful Choices
- Hershovitz argues mortality can give life meaning because scarcity forces choices.
- He asks listeners to imagine immortality where choices lose significance, showing endings make decisions important.
Sadness Is The Other Side Of Love
- Sadness often accompanies love or results from being mistreated; the first is tied to attachment, the second to lack of goodwill.
- Hershovitz suggests sadness from loss signals something valuable, while sadness from unkindness could be reduced by better behavior.
