Humanism - In Search of Wisdom

From Pythagoras to Particle Physics: Understanding and Questioning Western Intellectual History

Posted by Terry | Sep 1, 2023 | Blog Post, Philosophy, Science, Spirituality |

Explore the intricate evolution of Western intellectual history in this 14-module seminar series turned article, ‘From Pythagoras to Particle Physics: A Journey through Western Thought.’ Discover how ancient Greek philosophy laid the bedrock for modern scientific inquiry, ethical frameworks, and democratic governance. Dive into pivotal moments in history, from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment, and examine the challenges and opportunities posed by the Anthropocene epoch. This comprehensive overview offers thought-provoking insights into how the West’s intellectual trajectory has shaped our world, and critically assesses the future of democracy in light of emerging philosophical perspectives and real-world governance innovations.

Science, Philosophy & Spirituality – Season 1

Posted by Terry | Jul 1, 2022 |

An integrated review of what science, philosophy and spirituality contribute to our understanding and experience of the world today.
We each have a unique ‘worldview’ that is shaped by our knowledge, experiences and our beliefs. This course will provide the opportunity to examine (and possibly expand) that worldview in the light of modern scientific discoveries, critical questions posed by philosophers, and diverse beliefs revealed through spiritual traditions. It will be of particular interest to people who care about the lasting damage that humanity is causing to our home planet, and who are seeking to understand what resources the fields of science, philosophy and spirituality can offer

Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe

Posted by Terry | Feb 13, 2021 | Books |

In both time and space, the cosmos is astoundingly vast, and yet is governed by simple, elegant, universal mathematical laws.

On this cosmic timeline, our human era is spectacular but fleeting. Someday, we know, we will all die. And, we know, so too will the universe itself. — amamzon.co.uk

The Fascination and Danger of Stories

Posted by Terry | Oct 15, 2020 | Life together |

Stories are everywhere around us, and they have played a part in the cultural evolution of homo sapiens. But they have a dark side, and we should take care that we are masters of our stories and not enslaved by them.

The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human

Posted by Terry | Oct 13, 2020 | Books |

Humans live in landscapes of make-believe. We spin fantasies. We devour novels, films, and plays. Even sporting events and criminal trials unfold as narratives. Yet the world of story has long remained an undiscovered and unmapped country. Now Jonathan Gottschall offers the first unified theory of storytelling. He argues that stories help us navigate life’s complex social problems–just as flight simulators prepare pilots for difficult situations. Storytelling has evolved, like other behaviors, to ensure our survival. Drawing on the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and evolutionary biology, Gottschall tells us what it means to be a storytelling animal and explains how stories can change the world for the better. We know we are master shapers of story. The Storytelling Animal finally reveals how stories shape us.

Issue: Humanism

From Pythagoras to Particle Physics: Understanding and Questioning Western Intellectual History

Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe

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