Episódios

  • “What experience and history teach is this — that nations and governments have never learned anything from history, or acted upon any lessons they might have drawn from it.”

    — Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Lectures on the Philosophy of History

    This week, Hocwyn Tipwex returns to join Cyrus Palizban for a dialogue on the nature of historical lessons and the patterns of history’s repeated mistakes. From the close of Japan’s period of isolation to the effects of China’s “One Child Policy”, we explore how nations might better learn from their past to better their future. We delve into different ways of learning history, particularly the 'Great Man Theory' of history and the potential it holds for making historical narratives more relatable, emphasizing using biographies as a more engaging way to study history. Hopefully, this episode inspires you to order a biography online and let it transport you to another time and place…

    00:00 Welcome Back, Hocwyn Tipwex!

    00:35 Discussing Hegel's Quote on History

    01:03 The Repetition of Historical Mistakes

    04:36 Leadership and Power Dynamics

    11:01 China's Political Landscape

    15:56 Cultural Devastation and Preservation

    20:40 Japan's Rapid Modernization

    22:32 Comparing China and Japan's Historical Choices

    33:02 Historical Fiction and Understanding the Past

    36:26 Learning Preferences and Effective Study Methods

    36:47 The Power of Biographies in Learning

    38:23 Personal Experiences with Biographies

    40:23 Recommended Biographies and Their Impact

    46:18 The Great Man Theory of History

    51:58 Skepticism in Historical Narratives

    59:57 The Influence of Personal Stories in History

    01:08:54 Conclusion and Future Discussions

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  • "If what you are doing is not important, and if you don't think it is going to lead to something important, why are you at Bell Labs working on it?"

    – Richard Hamming

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and new guest, David H. Solomon, professor of finance at Boston College, as we discuss David’s work on behavioral finance, media roles, and recent research on birth rates. The discussion centers on a quote by Richard Hamming about importance, which David connects to his own work, namely: the intricacies of birth rates, the impact of child car seat laws, and how local diversity affects fertility rates. Above all, this episode emphasizes the value of disciplined academic inquiry and highlights the importance of asking challenging questions

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:16 David Solomon's Background

    00:46 Exploring Behavioral Finance

    01:15 Richard Hamming's Inspirational Quote

    02:02 The Importance of Working on Significant Problems

    03:33 Challenges in Academia and Research

    05:31 Birth Rates and Economic Implications

    06:31 The Puzzle of Declining Birth Rates

    13:48 Empirical Analysis and Coding

    17:20 The Impact of Child Car Seat Laws on Birth Rates

    24:59 Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Policy

    28:01 Exploring the Relationship Between Racial Diversity and Birth Rates

    29:47 Understanding the Herfindahl Index and Racial Isolation

    31:52 Implications for Homogeneous Countries

    34:37 Historical Consistency of Birth Rate Trends

    37:53 Challenges and Backlash in Academia

    41:04 The Role of Tenure in Academic Research

    44:28 The Broader Context of Non-Profit Institutions

    49:16 Personal Reflections on Birth Rates and Parenthood

    55:23 Concluding Thoughts and Future Research Directions

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  • How can we navigate change?

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban in introducing the newest Lightning faculty member, Benjamin Hinrichs, who shares a sneak peek from his new course: 'Innovation and the Social Order'. The course will delve into the nature of societal change, understanding future uncertainties, and the necessity of preparing mentally for change. Our explores the intersection of government, entrepreneurship, and personal life decisions in the context of uncertainty and change. Benjamin’s motivations for teaching the course are rooted in embracing humanity’s limitations in knowing and adapting to change, emphasizing intellectual humility and practical applications. We hope this episode is a compelling motivation to join Benjamin's exploration of how individuals can better understand and navigate the inevitability of change.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:21 Course Overview: Innovation and the Social Order

    01:23 Discussing Bill Joy's Essay: Why the Future Doesn't Need Us

    04:54 The Role of Ambiguity in Understanding Change

    11:40 Personal Reflections on Teaching and Faith

    17:07 Government and Innovation: A Complex Relationship

    23:44 Navigating Change: Practical Advice and Philosophical Insights

    35:48 Conclusion and Course Invitation

    If Benjamin has you intrigued with what he could offer you in his course, find it through this link:

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  • "You start to mistrust very clever people when they get embarrassed."

    – Friedrich Nietzsche, Beyond Good and Evil

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Nicolas Sarian as we dive deep into the complexities and frustrations of academia. Using the above Nietzsche quote as a springboard, we explore and recount personal experiences of academic disappointment and systemic issues in higher education. We discuss the flawed nature of tenure, the imbalance of true intellectual engagement, and the pervasiveness of performative scholarship within universities. This thought-provoking conversation challenges the current state of academic institutions and underscores the necessity for genuine, transformative learning platforms such as Lightning’s own Grand Library of Alexandria.

    00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast

    00:26 Nietzsche's Quote of the Week

    01:48 Personal Experiences with Embarrassment

    05:41 Challenges in Academia

    08:51 Debating Classic Texts and Privilege

    15:25 Cultural and Social Class Issues

    28:18 Racial Tensions and Misunderstandings

    28:53 Trust and Authenticity in Academia

    29:28 Diversity of Ideas in Universities

    29:48 Pretending in Academic Circles

    29:57 Questioning Academic Practices

    31:11 The Reality of Tenure

    36:38 The Disconnect in Academic Research

    44:51 Public Intellectuals vs. Traditional Academics

    49:19 The Nature of Embarrassment and Honesty

    52:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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  • “Go over.”

    – Franz Kafka

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Zohar Atkins as we delve into Kafka's 'Parable on Parables.' Establishing the dichotomy between tangible reality and the abstract world of parable we ask: how can one live in both realms? Appropriately, the conversation employs a variety of tales and stories to explore the personal and societal value of integrating metaphorical insights into daily life.

    00:00 Introduction to The Lightning Podcast

    00:32 Kafka's Parable on Parables

    01:57 Interpreting Parables and Reality

    05:29 The Chicken Prince: A Parable of Empathy

    12:27 Balancing Material and Spiritual Success

    17:24 Universal Themes in Parables Across Cultures

    21:01 The Power of Parables

    24:17 The Influence of Media and Pop Culture

    26:12 The Marvel Universe and Storytelling

    31:47 The Importance of Consistency in Stories

    38:03 Life, Death, and Purpose

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  • “Seek not the paths of the ancients. Seek that which the ancients sought.”

    –Matsuo Basho, The Rustic Gate

    This week, host Cyrus Palizban introduces Hocwyn Tipwex, Harvard grad and co-founder of Uqbar. Our conversation delves into the philosophy behind ancient and modern learning, the value of pseudonymous intellectual discourse, and the impact of small, tightly-knit intellectual communities. We discuss the shortcomings and potential reforms for the current educational system, the importance of critical thinking, and how emerging peer-to-peer technologies like Urbit could influence future societal structures.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:28 Hocwyn's Background and Name Origin

    02:46 The Philosophy of Names and Identity

    05:29 Anonymous Intellectual Traditions

    05:58 Revolutionary America and Pseudonymous Debates

    10:14 Intellectual Networks and Small Communities

    13:42 The Value of Ancient Wisdom

    21:38 Challenges in Modern Education

    27:55 The Universal Problem of Education

    28:32 Self-Guided Learning: An Alternative Approach

    29:08 The Role of Public School Teachers

    29:25 Scott Alexander's Insights on School Spending

    30:12 The Ineffectiveness of Educational Interventions

    30:27 The Cultural Fragmentation in Education

    30:56 The Harsh Reality of Teacher Impact

    31:38 Radical Changes Needed in Education

    32:36 The Issue of Universal Public Education

    33:38 Aggressive Tracking and Teacher Specialization

    35:13 The Boredom Problem in Schools

    36:52 The Potential of a Teacher Distribution System

    37:20 The Concept of Teaching as a Temporary Vocation

    38:30 The East Asian Education Model

    40:07 The Challenge of Tenure and Teacher Accountability

    44:05 The Role of Technology in Decentralized Education

    49:16 The Future of Remote Work and Education

    49:58 The Impact of Federalism on Education

    50:40 The Evolution of Social Networks and Communities

    52:18 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

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  • "It is the rare fortune of these days that one may think what one likes and say what one thinks."

    -Tacitus, Histories

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Nico Sarian as we delve into the complex interplay between censorship, free speech, and authenticity. We explore how historical contexts from ancient Rome to modern-day America shape our understanding of thought and expression. We discuss societal structures, political freedoms, and their implications, drawing connections with philosophical ideas from Plato to the U.S. Constitution.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    00:40 Exploring Tacitus' Quote on Free Thought

    01:58 Historical Context of Tacitus' Era

    03:24 Modern Implications of Free Speech and Censorship

    04:46 Public Opinion and Democracy

    08:21 Immigration and National Identity

    17:35 Political Freedoms and Social Protests

    19:29 Power Dynamics in Argentina

    20:02 Anthropological Perspectives on Leadership

    21:12 Philosophical Foundations of Governance

    22:45 Plato's Republic and Social Hierarchy

    25:04 Modern Interpretations and Critiques

    30:55 The Role of Language in Shaping Thought

    34:09 The Search for Authenticity

    39:14 Concluding Thoughts and Announcements

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  • What is a Golden Age?

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Rainer Franz, the Business Development Director at Lightning, as we discuss Rainer’s lecture series on the Golden Ages, discussing the rise and fall of great civilizations like Greece, Persia, and Rome. We explore the concept of a 'Golden Age,' how the phases of civilizations are compared to seasonal cycles, and the difference between Oswald Spengler’s deterministic views and Arnold Toynbee’s focus on societal rigidity. We touch upon the conspicuous parallels between the Greco-Roman civilization and the present state of the West. Delving into historical parallels, the role of philosophy, and the influence of past writings on contemporary society, we wonder what can be done to ensure a continued future for the West.

    00:00 Introduction: The Rise and Fall of Ancient Empires

    00:19 Guest Introduction: Meet Rainer Franz

    01:06 Defining the Golden Ages

    01:13 The Influence of Oswald Spengler

    03:03 Rainer's Interest in Historical Parallels

    04:13 Learning from History: Practical Applications

    05:22 The Power of Reading and Imagination

    08:29 What Makes a Society?

    10:17 Oswald Spengler's Philosophy and the Ur Symbol

    12:34 The Lifecycle of Civilizations

    13:22 Greek and Roman Civilizations: A Comparative Analysis

    23:14 The Roman Legacy and Its Modern Relevance

    24:04 The Preservation of Ancient Wisdom

    24:46 Western Fascination with Greece and Rome

    25:15 The Role of Time in Different Civilizations

    27:07 The Impact of Rome on Civilization

    29:14 Spengler's Theory on the Life Cycle of Civilizations

    30:16 Comparing Spengler and Toynbee's Views

    33:17 The Transition from Money Politics to Power Politics

    39:03 Modern Parallels to Ancient Civilizations

    43:11 The Potential for a New Beginning

    44:45 Join the Conversation

    If you’re craving a deeper exploration of these topics, consider joining Rainer's lecture series through the link in the description.

    https://smartlink2.metricool.com/public/smartlink/lightning-945

  • “Evil happens without effort, naturally, inevitably; good is always the product of skill.”

    – Charles Baudelaire

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Nico Sarian as we dive deep into the timeless debate on the nature of good and evil, starting with the above quote by Baudelaire, then examining perspectives from Kant, Hume, Nietzsche, Spinoza, and others, drawing analogies to physics, aesthetics, and even zoology. All in an attempt to answer the questions: What is evil? What is good?

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:43 Exploring the Concept of Evil

    03:20 Philosophical Perspectives on Good and Evil

    07:20 The Banality of Evil

    10:33 Intentionality and the Nature of Evil

    19:27 Nirvana and the Nature of Existence

    27:00 Questioning the Nature of Life

    27:35 Nietzsche's Perspective on Morality

    30:17 Aesthetic Perspective on Good and Evil

    33:21 Human Behavior and Animal Instincts

    39:29 Philosophical Insights on Evil

    47:37 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

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  • “The more man judges, the less he loves.”

    — Honoré de Balzac, Philosophy of Marriage

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Zohar Atkins as we delve into the ever-contentious relationship between love and judgment. Starting with a quote from Honoré de Balzac, we debate whether judgment and love can coexist and the implications of being judgmental versus loving. Leveraging Zohar’s knowledge of Jewish tradition, the discussion moves through contrasting religious teachings of the Kabbalah, biblical narratives, and anecdotal examples, aiming to discern if judgment has any place within love.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:09 Exploring the Quote: Love vs. Judgment

    00:20 Kabbalah and Religious Perspectives

    01:08 Judgment as an Expression of Love

    03:54 Psychological Insights on Judgment

    05:41 Defending Judgment: Political and Practical Views

    07:02 Balancing Judgment and Compassion

    07:14 Judgment in Society and Personal Experience

    08:36 The Role of Judgment in Personal Growth

    10:57 Judgment, Love, and Spirituality

    16:24 Practical Applications and Reflections

    31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    32:42 Outro and Additional Resources

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  • “Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.”

    — Arthur Schopenhauer, The World as Will and Representation

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Zohar Atkins as we delve into the nature of genius and talent, using the words of Arthur Schopenhauer as springboard. Are talent and genius the same? If not, what are the differences? Historically, from Rome to Jerusalem, what has been the societal reception of genius? We discuss the importance of individuality and nonconformity, and examples from history such as Einstein and Da Vinci. Finally, we discuss the impact of community and collaboration on fostering genius.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:17 Discussing Schopenhauer's Quote on Talent and Genius

    01:13 The Nature of Genius and Its Challenges

    02:43 Talent vs. Genius: Training and Originality

    06:19 Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Genius

    09:39 The Role of Genius in Society and Innovation

    10:22 Genius, Technology, and the Future

    13:34 The Sociological and Psychological Aspects of Genius

    24:49 The Importance of Collaboration and Environment for Genius

    36:26 Concluding Thoughts on Genius and Prophecy

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    Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU

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  • “Immorality, no less than morality, has at all times found support in religion.”

    — Sigmund Freud, The Future of an Illusion

    This week on The Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban and guest Nicolas Sarian as we engage in a compelling discussion surrounding this controversial quote by Sigmund Freud. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the roots of morality in religion, Freud's complex relationship with his Jewish heritage, and the origins and impact of psychoanalysis. We delve into Freud's significant works, such as 'Moses and Monotheism,' and explore how Freud's ideas have shaped modern therapy practices. Perhaps you will examine your own interpretations of morality and the influence of religious teachings in your life…

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:16 Debating Freud's Controversial Quote

    00:52 Exploring the Origins of Morality

    04:51 Freud's Religious Background

    07:11 The Birth of Talk Therapy

    08:42 Freud's Influence on Modern Therapy

    11:16 Freud's Writings and Jewish Roots

    21:32 Psychoanalysis and Jewish Tradition

    23:28 The Enigma of the Sphinx

    23:48 Philosophical Hermeneutics

    24:45 Exploring Heraclitus' Fragments

    27:03 Interpreting Signs in Life

    28:08 Modern Interpretation Challenges

    30:11 Apple's New AI: Apple Intelligence

    34:31 Freud's Hasidic Roots and Psychoanalysis

    36:58 Conclusion and Community Invitation

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  • “Man is the only one that knows nothing, that can learn nothing without being taught. He can neither speak nor walk nor eat, and in short he can do nothing at the prompting of nature only, but weep.”

    — Pliny the Elder, Natural History

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Alexander (Sasha) Kim, a Harvard PhD candidate in Anthropology, as we delve into Sasha’s fascinating work at the crossroads of archaeology and ancient DNA, focusing on North Eurasia. Using the above quote by Pliny the Elder as our starting point, we discuss human uniqueness – debating biological and developmental perspectives, and contrasting it with the knowledge systems of indigenous cultures like the Yukaghirs of Siberia. Drawing from both historical texts and Sasha’s fieldwork experiences, we discuss reincarnation beliefs, the autonomy of children, and how different societies perceive knowledge and authority. They dive deep into the interconnectedness of human, animal, and spiritual realms. Sasha’s joy of unearthing ancient stories through his archaeology and anthropology really shines through in this fascinating episode.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:25 Sasha's Background and Work

    01:10 Quote of the Week: Pliny the Elder

    01:53 Debating Human Exceptionalism

    04:46 Anthropological Perspectives on Learning

    07:08 Reincarnation Beliefs Across Cultures

    13:57 Yukaghir Society and Child Autonomy

    24:02 Comparative Cultural Insights

    33:16 Pliny the Elder and Animal Valuation

    45:41 Sasha's Motivation and Conclusion

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  • “If cattle and horses and lions had hands or could paint with their hands and create works such as men do, horses like horses and cattle like cattle would depict the gods' shapes and make their bodies of such a sort as the form they themselves have.”

    — Xenophanes, Fragments

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Nicolas Sarian as we delve into the philosophical insights of Xenophanes, focusing on the anthropomorphization of worshiped deities gods. We explore the history and evolution of religious thought, from pre-Socratic philosophy to 20th-century sociology, discussing the works of thinkers like Émile Durkheim. The conversation covers how religious and societal structures influence one another, touching on topics like totemism, functionalism, and the psychological aspects of worship. Additionally, the discussion broadens to include reflections on modern cultural phenomena, the role of faith, and the implications of information overload in contemporary society.

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    00:15 Exploring Xenophanes' Philosophy

    02:36 Functionalism and Sociology

    07:21 Early Human Spirituality and Fear

    12:12 Anthropomorphism in Religion

    20:49 Proto-Indo-European Cultures

    31:15 Modern Anthropology and Exploration

    34:37 Jordan Peterson and Dennis Quaid on Movie Stars

    35:53 The Cult of Celebrity

    36:28 Favorite Actors and Their Impact

    39:55 The Value of Mystery in Cinema

    40:55 The Role of AI and Information Overload

    43:41 Curating Information in the Modern Age

    46:42 The Concept of Katechons

    54:08 The Evolution of Worship and Fear

    01:01:16 Conclusion and Upcoming Book Clubs

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  • “Disaster ruins everything, while leaving everything intact.”

    — Maurice Blanchot, The Writing of Disaster

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Francis Pedraza, founder of Invisible Technologies, as we discuss the paradoxical nature of disaster. Francis reflects on his personal and professional setbacks, particularly those of Invisible, and relates these experiences to the broader philosophical concepts of expectations, happiness, and ancient Stoic wisdom. Inevitably, the conversation delves into historical and philosophical discussions about the nature of disaster, life, death, and the universe, touching on Eastern and Western philosophies, the illusory aspects of reality, and the concept of self beyond physical and mental identifications. We conclude by contemplating the role of an individual in the grand scheme of existence, urging listeners to embrace life's challenges with a peaceful mind and a sense of agency. Play the game of life!

    00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast!

    00:14 Exploring Paradoxes with Francis Pedraza

    00:56 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Overcoming Disasters

    02:39 Invisible: A Case Study in Innovation and Resilience

    03:41 The Philosophical Depths of Failure and Success

    09:01 Navigating Life's Existential Challenges

    24:03 The Dance of Life: Embracing the Cosmic Play

    26:05 The Harsh Realities of Extreme Conditions

    26:36 Exploring the Depths of Personal Peace

    27:10 Inspirational Insights from Autobiography of a Yogi

    27:57 The Power of Positive Influence and Societal Dynamics

    29:12 Embracing Death with Peace: Philosophical Perspectives

    31:47 The I Ching: Understanding Life's Infinite Possibilities

    36:24 The Simulation Theory and the Quest for Reality

    38:15 Eastern Wisdom vs. Western Perception

    40:57 The Illusion of Self and the Path to Enlightenment

    44:45 The Game of Life: Engaging with the World Mindfully

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  • “When you wish to instruct, be brief; that men’s minds may take in quickly what you say, learn its lesson, and retain it faithfully. Every word that is unnecessary only pours over the side of a brimming mind.” – Horace, Ars Poetica

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Zohar Atkins as they discuss Horace's quote on brevity in instruction. Of course this begins a discussion on teaching methodologies, with Zohar’s insights as a rabbi coming into play, offering both philosophical and religious perspectives. From there, Zohar is asked to reflect on his unique experiences with philosophy, the impact of various past thinkers, and the interaction between philosophy, religion, and education. Our discussion concludes with thoughts on the balance between pursuing truth and embracing wisdom in both philosophical inquiry and religious belief. Where do you stand?

    00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast with Professor Zohar Atkins

    00:25 Exploring Brevity in Teaching and Learning

    01:11 The Complexity of Education and Its Impact on Secularism

    02:28 Adjusting Teaching Methods to Student Needs

    03:58 The Art of Lecturing and Its Evolution

    04:33 Debating the Essence of Brevity in Communication

    07:39 Philosophy vs. Instruction: A Deep Dive

    11:56 Socratic Method: Exploration or Direction?

    15:43 Philosophy, Politics, and the Quest for Wisdom

    27:44 The Intersection of Philosophy and Judaism

    40:10 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

    Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!

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  • "The keenest sorrow is to recognize ourselves as the sole cause of all our adversities."

    – Sophocles, Oedipus Rex

    Change of format! This week, host Cyrus Palizban invites a single guest, Nico Sarian, to dive into the quote of the week and meander from there! Starting with the quote from Sophocles' “Oedipus Rex”, we take a deep dive into the nature of Greek tragedy, the significance of individual actions and fate, and the impact of historical and cultural context on literary interpretation. The discussion ranges from the origins of the dithyramb of the ancient cult of Dionysus to the many names of Apollo in the further-flung Hellenic reaches to the intricate subtexts of theology, the creative reconstruction of historical narratives, and the philosophical underpinning of tragedy as a genre. Additionally, Nico shares some of his personal theses on the nature of good and evil, and how their distinction is often hidden from us. Can we really be responsible for that which we cannot know?

    00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: A Unique Exploration

    00:47 Diving Deep into Greek Tragedy with Nico Sarian

    02:30 The Lost Art of Tragedy and the Mystery of Missing Plays

    03:54 Reimagining Ancient Greece: Color, Art, and History Misconceptions

    24:10 Exploring the Depths of Apollo's Cults and Nietzsche's Critique

    31:36 The Modern Predicament: Religion, Philosophy, and Individual Responsibility

    35:45 Exploring Self-Improvement and Reality

    25:08 The Journey Through Nigredo and Personal Reflections

    38:30 Delving into the Essence of Evil and Darkness

    39:32 The Philosophical Debate on Good, Evil, and Accountability

    46:28 A Deep Dive into Darkness, Perception, and Moral Realizations

    52:01 Connecting Martial Arts, Legal Philosophy, and Fate

    01:02:42 Wrapping Up: From Apollo to Lupercalia and Beyond

    Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!

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  • “Real vengeance has not yet concretely demonstrated its power upon our lives and it never will, in a sense, because if it did, there would be no more lives to be affected by anything.” — René Girard, Dionysus versus the Crucified

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Rainer Franz, and Harry Jacobs as we delve into a discussion on Rene Girard's theories, particularly focusing on mimetic desire and its role in human conflict and vengeance. According to Girard, envy and rivalry, rooted in the imitation of desires, drive societal and interpersonal conflicts which can lead to cycles of violence and scapegoating. An engaging real-life narrative shared by guest Harry Jacobs about an altercation and its aftermath serves as a practical exploration of the themes of vengeance, justice, and forgiveness, prompting a deeper analysis of human nature, the potential for change, and the moral implications of intervention in conflicts. This is an episode for anyone who has struggled with revenge.

    00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: Exploring Weekly Meditations

    00:39 Diving Deep into Rene Girard's Theory of Mimetic Desire

    04:18 Understanding Dionysus vs. The Crucified: A Comparative Analysis

    11:05 Real-World Implications of Girard's Theories: A Personal Story

    15:59 The Ripple Effects of Vengeance and the Power of Restraint

    21:45 Exploring the Complexity of Right and Wrong

    22:29 The Philosophical Debate: Justice vs. Mercy

    23:54 Biblical Insights and Moral Dilemmas

    24:37 The Girardian Perspective on Vengeance and Justice

    25:45 Human Nature, Violence, and the Potential for Change

    29:36 The Role of Emotion in Conflict and Resolution

    31:54 Harry's Personal Reflection and Growth

    40:15 Concluding Thoughts: The Power of Words Over Violence

    Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!

    Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U

    Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU

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  • “With the exception of the instinct of self-preservation, the propensity for emulation is probably the strongest and most alert and persistent of the economic motives proper.”

    — Thorstein Veblen, Theory of the Leisure Class

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Nicolas Sarian, Zohar Atkins, and Harry Jacobs as we explore Thorstein Veblen's assertion. We discuss various dimensions of emulation, from its philosophical implications to its real-world applications like influencing market trends and investment decisions. The conversation spans topics including the impact of social media influencers, the evolution of wealth and luxury from a historical perspective, and the balance between emulating others and maintaining individuality. From Bruce Springsteen's music to Warren Buffett's investment strategies, the podcast delves into how emulation drives not only economic behaviors but also personal and cultural narratives.

    00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast

    00:32 Diving Into Thorstein Veblen's Insights

    01:32 Exploring Emulation in Society

    05:15 The Phenomenon of Veblen Goods

    13:00 Emulation vs. Self-Preservation

    14:29 The Influence of Role Models and Emulation in Modern Society

    17:55 Economic Wisdom from Warren Buffett

    21:48 The Apple vs. Amazon Investment Philosophy

    24:03 Navigating the Digital Music Landscape

    24:36 The Evolution of Music Consumption: From Napster to Spotify

    25:36 Bruce Springsteen: The Soundtrack of Life

    25:47 A Deep Dive into 'Born in the USA' and Its Misinterpretations

    27:00 Personal Encounters with Bruce Springsteen

    30:07 Emulating Musical Giants: The Quest for Originality

    32:55 Exploring Wealth, Liquidity, and the Value of Property

    39:15 The Cultural Impact of Home Ownership and Economic Collapse

    44:33 Wrapping Up: From Veblen to Springsteen and Beyond

    Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!

    Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U

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  • “I certainly have, thanks to time, an interlocking and taking up of previous experiences in later experiences, but I never have an absolute possession of myself by myself, since the hollow of the future is always filled by a new present.” – Maurice Merleau-Ponty

    This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Nicolas Sarian, Harry Jacobs, and new team member Rainer Franz as we delve into profound discussions on Maurice Merleau-Ponty's philosophy of phenomenology, and its implications on identity, the body, the nature of AI, and the intertwining of reality, language, and understanding. Also drawing from other phenomenologists, such as Heidegger and Husserl, we challenge the definition of intelligence and consciousness in AI, and the distinction between human and machine understanding. This episode is a short but intense conversation between colleagues on the nature of perception and being.

    00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: A Dive into Phenomenology

    00:32 Exploring Maurice Merleau Ponty's Philosophical Insights

    01:54 Deep Dive into Phenomenology: Body, Perception, and Identity

    10:35 Phenomenology vs. AI: Understanding Consciousness and Embodiment

    20:19 AI and the Human Experience: A Philosophical Debate

    30:58 Concluding Thoughts on AI, Perception, and Existence

    Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!

    Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U

    Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU

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